September 20, 1942 ~ March 28, 2026 (age 83)
Mathy Ray Forehand, age 83, of Auburn, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Ray was born on September 20, 1942, in Pensacola, Florida, to William and Mattie Lou Forehand. He attended high school in Pensacola and later earned a degree in Industrial Engineering from Auburn University in 1968.
Ray proudly served in the United States Air Force and was a Vietnam veteran. He retired with the rank of Major and earned the Joint Service Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal during his active duty career. Following active duty, he continued to serve his country as a civilian employee of the Department of Defense, working at military installations across the United States.
After retirement from government service, Ray shared his knowledge as a computer skills instructor at Enterprise State Junior College.
A man of deep faith and service, Ray served as Senior Warden at Epiphany Episcopal Church in Enterprise, Alabama and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. In his leisure time, Ray enjoyed restoring cars and crafting guitars and dulcimers, pursuits that reflected both his creativity and precision.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years Lucy; his sons Brett (Jennifer) and Scott (Lisa); his grandchildren Ellen, Abbey, Clara, Sam, and Matthew; his brothers David (Susan) and Dan (Margie); and his sister Chris.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Amedisys and Southeast Hospice and to the staff at Arbor Lake Nursing Home for their compassionate care and support.
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