Ray Joseph Duckworth, 88, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 3, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on January 14, 1938, he was the son of the late Clinton Ray Duckworth and Irene Hipps Duckworth.
Ray was a proud veteran of the US Navy. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. He also made sure to express his love to his wife every day. Ray also loved his church, Mt. Home Baptist Church, his church family, and his Sunday school class. He liked working with his hands and making things out of wood, bass fish, and tend his garden.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Shirley Lemmons Duckworth; children, Jeff Duckworth (Terri), Tim Duckworth, Wanda Smart, Calvin Timothy Trull, and Deanna Trull; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family; and his beloved dog, Corky.
In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his sister, Frances Morrison.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Mt. Home Baptist Church. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. in the church with Rev. Ethan Cromer officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by the US Navy.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Ray, I appreciate the kindness you showed to me and my children during our time visiting with you. Five years passed by so quickly, but I am grateful to have enjoyed a few western shows together in your home, being invited to your sweet church, seeing so many smile when they were in your presence. We did not know you very long, but so obvious from our first introduction that you love Jesus. What a wonderful blessing that you’re in the presence of our Lord! Thank You for receiving my brother, dear Father!
I know that Ray is walking the streets of gold with his Lord. I worked with Ray for about 36 years . He was a good man and I know he will be missed.
Shirley & family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Keep the cherished memories you have close in your heart. With sincere sympathy,
What a wonderful man he was! He and Shirley have been great neighbors of my father for many years. He built the cabinets in one of their bathrooms and they are beautiful. He will sure be missed. May God comfort you all.