November 14, 2025, 92, Goldsboro —
Charles Ray Sullivan was granted eternal rest by his Heavenly Father on Friday morning, November 14, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife and two daughters. Ray was born in Wayne County on November 5, 1933, to the late Cleatus and Mildred Kirby Sullivan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James Sullivan and Will Sullivan, and by his son-in-law, Tim Ballance.
Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. After completing his military service, he dedicated many years to the United States Postal Service as a rural letter carrier, becoming a familiar and trusted presence to the many friends he made along his route.
A man of unwavering faith, Ray was a devoted member of Stoney Creek Free Will Baptist Church and a faithful member of the Ambassador Sunday School Class. He loved music, quiet mornings spent fishing, working in his yard and treasured weekends with family at their family beach house in Surf City. His heart was firmly rooted in the things that mattered most—his family, his country, and his church.
Ray also had a deep commitment to his community. He faithfully served on the Belfast–Patetown Sanitary District Board since its inception in 1988, dedicating more than 37 years to ensuring the well-being of the community he loved.
The family will receive friends on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon in the fellowship hall at Stoney Creek FWB Church. A service celebrating Ray’s life will follow at 12:00 noon in the sanctuary with Rev. Josh Whitfield and Rev. Barry Williamson officiating. Interment will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, where the United States Army will render military honors.
Ray is survived by the love of his life for more than 70 years, Marguerite Howell Sullivan; his daughters, Brenda Pearson and husband, Jerry, and Kay Ballance. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jerri-Rae Phillips (Robby), Lindsey MacDougall (Scott) Luke Pearson (Jamie), Dustin Gurley (Regina), Drake Gurley (Joanna); and by his 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored. He is also survived by his brother Edward Sullivan and wife Terri. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father, a cherished papa and a man whose humor, kindness, integrity, and gentle spirit touched countless lives.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Gentiva Hospice, especially Summer Boyette, Chassidy Lee and Bridget Honrine. Special gratitude is also given to his personal caregiver, Cyndee Hutton, who provided exceptional love and support during his final weeks.
Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be made in Ray’s memory to Stoney Creek Free Will Baptist Church, 752 Stoney Creek Church Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
