Ray Dortch

Ray Dortch was born May 20, 1949 to the late Evie and Ernest Dortch. He was one of 12 children. Ray was preceded in death by 3 sisters, Essie Pauline, Lillie Cartwright, and Leonie Kelly; and by 4 brothers, Edward, Taylor, Raymond, and Purnice Dortch. Ray attended Houston County Schools and later worked with J.D. Lewis Senior Center, Erin, TN. Ray dedicated his life at an early age and became a lifelong member of Dortch’s Chapel CME Church, Cumberland City, TN, where he was very faithful, and committed until his time of passing. Ray loved the Lord and his family; he also loved music, dancing, getting together with family and friends, and working. When Ray wasn’t working, he loved watching television, listening to music, and working on his bicycle. Ray was a very loving, and kindhearted person, and an inspiration to all who knew him. On November 5, 2025, Ray departed this life at his residence, leaving his memory to his devoted sister, Mary Edwards; a very devoted brother, Micheal Dortch; his “ride or die” twin brother, Fay Dortch, all of Cumberland City, TN; and Willie Dortch of Evansville, IN. He also leaves behind a host of devoted nephews and nieces, relatives and friends; 3 devoted friends specifically, Mrs. Leslie, Brother Kevin Caldwell, and Brother Levi Morrow. Ray will truly be missed by his family, shaking their hands, and saying, “I like you”, waiting for us to respond, “I love you”. We love you, Ray, and we won’t say goodbye, but just “so long” … we will meet you again.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 12:00 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Chapel of Nave Funeral Home with Pastor Donna Hyde, Bro. Kevin Caldwell, and Bro. Dexter Edwards officiating. Burial will follow in the Dortch Family Cemetery.

The Dortch family will receive friends on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service at noon.

Arrangements are in the care of Nave Funeral Home, (931) 289-4277, NaveFuneralHomes.com.