Ray Garland Obituary

Ray Chandler Garland

July 28, 1932 - May 10, 2025

Ray Chandler Garland, 92, of Valdosta, Georgia, died on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Langdale Place, following a period of declining health. He spent his childhood in Hartsville, South Carolina, graduating from Hartsville High School where he was 'King Teen'.

Ray served four years in the Navy on an aircraft carrier as Second Class Machinist and in Japan. He earned a degree in Accounting and Business at The University of South Carolina. He wore his S.C. ring with pride as he was the only one of his five siblings to graduate from college. Ray was employed by Sonoco Products Company in both Hartsville and Orlando. He retired from Louis Dreyfus Company in Winter Garden, Florida.

Mr. Garland is survived by Rachel, his wife of 57 years, his stepdaughter, Jacki, and her husband, Reverend Willie Beasley of Hahira; his stepson Randy Parnell and his wife Colleen, of St. Cloud, one grandson and his wife, Brett and Missy Beasley of Marietta; grandson Ryan Beasley (deceased); and two great grandchildren, Davis and Daisy.

Ray enjoyed 23 years of retirement in both Burnsville, North Carolina, and Port Orange, Florida. According to his wishes, his ashes, along with those of his wife, will one day be scattered together on the beautiful North Carolina mountains.

Condolences to the family may be sent to Rachel Garland, 2720 Windermere Drive, Apartment 361, Valdosta, Georgia, 31602.