Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
BARNWELL - Gladys Miles Ray, 86, passed away on June 11, 2026 after a short battle with cancer. Born January 26, 1940 in Blackville, S.C., Gladys leaves behind a legacy of faith, fellowship, and friendship through the lives she touched.
Throughout Gladys’ life, she was called to serve others, to share her love of the gospel and spread the love and light of God through her life. Gladys retired from Dayco Belts and the South Carolina Voter’s Registration. Gladys was a faithful member of Reedy Branch Baptist Church where she served on a number of committees, sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, and various other youth and adult ministries. Gladys was famous for her use of the Barnwell County “Prayer Chain”, where she and other members of the community would call each other to pray about and discuss spoken and unspoken needs. Gladys was always known to provide a covered dish and visit with those experiencing hardship. Gladys loved the Lord and her church family dearly. Gladys had a deep love and respect for Barnwell County Emergency Services and was known to listen out for local happenings using her police scanner.
Gladys Miles Ray was preceded in death by her father, Franklin McCoy Miles, and mother, Bertha Mae Still Miles; her husband of 49 years, Bernice G. Ray; a grandson, Gregory C. Still; 9 brothers, and 1 sister. She is lovingly survived by her three children, Patricia “Pat” Ray Lax (Skip) of Aiken, S.C., Bernice Hugh Ray (Nicole) of Aiken, S.C., and Kathryn “KC” Renee Ray Powell (Ronnie) of Greenwood, S.C. Her very special granddaughters and great-granddaughters - Kaitlyn Victoria Baker (Nathan), Liz Still, Caroline Still (Aiden), Riley Still, and Erika Lax Martin (Austin). Additionally, 4 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, her best furry friend - Piper, and a great number of nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to Gentiva Hospice for the care and support they provided Gladys and the family during her illness.
Visitation will be held at Reedy Branch Baptist Church, 411 Reedy Branch Rd., Barnwell, S.C. 29812 at 10 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026. A graveside service will follow at the Barnwell County Memorial Cemetery (Airport), 11907 Hwy. 278, Barnwell, S.C. 29812. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent in Gladys’ name to Reedy Branch Baptist Church.
Mole Funeral Home of Barnwell is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit the online registry at www.molefh.com.
