Aileen Pardue

Aileen Pardue Ray, age 96, of Clarkesville, Georgia, passed away Tuesday June 2, 2020. Mrs. Ray was born December 18, 1923, in Habersham County, Georgia. She was the first-born child of George Hughes Pardue and Herclean Gibson Pardue. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Ray, her son, Pat Ray, her brother, John Pardue and her sister, Brenda Pardue Porter. Mrs. Ray, affectionately known as “Meme”, delighted in her role as wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She enjoyed celebrating birthdays and holidays with her adored family, and she always looked forward to visiting with friends both old and new. Her remarkable memory and her lively sense of humor were two of her most endearing qualities. As a member of the Greatest Generation she welcomed any opportunity to share her vivid memories of attending a one room schoolhouse, going to the Loudsville Methodist camp meetings in the summer, attending Pardue family reunions and being baptized at age thirteen in the Chattahoochee River. She had a keen interest in the history of Habersham County and its people. As a long-time member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Mrs. Ray enjoyed teaching Sunday School in the children’s department for many years. She continued impacting the children in her community when she opened and operated ABC Kindergarten for several years. “Meme” was much beloved by her family and friends and will be remembered for her generous spirit, her positive attitude and the strength and courage she displayed throughout her lifetime. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law Ann and Joey Arencibia, of Hiawassee; sons and daughters-in-law, Ken and Angie Ray, of Jefferson; Mike and Becky Ray, of Cornelia; grandchildren: Bart, Alexa, Gabby and Grant Arencibia; Andy Ray; Vince Ray (Shelley); Whitney Ray Cox (Leland); Brooks Ray (Katie). Great-grandchildren, V.J. and Landry Ray; Preston, Parker and Hudson Cox; Kaleigh, Bowman and Lillie Ray and Patton Ray who is scheduled to arrive in the fall, sisters: Geraldine (Jeri) Holcomb and Ernestine (Tootsie) McEntire, both of Clarkesville; and many nieces and nephews. Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, a private family service is being held. Memorials may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, 624 Hwy 197 N, Clarkesville, Georgia 30523 or to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone 706-778-1700