Ramon Alfred Davies, known to most simply as Ray, died Tuesday morning, June 3, 2025 in the home he built with his own hands and the help of friends and family.
He is survived by Teri, his beloved wife of thirty years, mother, Nancy Martin Davies, brother Roger, children Stuart Cole, Susan Cole, Jesse Johnson, and nephews Aaron, Daniel, and Benjamin Davies. Ray lost his father, Paul Harris Davies, in 1987.
Ray and his first wife, Susan Baker, chose land in Cleveland with plenty of space for a big garden and a shop for Raybuilt Construction, the company he started after graduating from Catawba College in 1974, with honors in both English and Philosophy. He brought his intellect and love of a good story to his customers throughout Salisbury and nearby communities. As they came to know Ray, many became lifelong friends.
As an Eagle Scout, Ray could be relied upon to follow the tenets of that noble organization. He was trustworthy, loyal, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. HIs mother, Nancy, can attest to his honoring these scout traditions, as she still lives next door and has for almost forty years.
Ray served the town of Cleveland on the Planning Board and Board of Adjustments, his sense of fairness evident in decisions he encouraged the town to make. As an active member of the Salisbury based readers theater group, The Phoenix Readers, he delighted in performing poetry, songs, and literary works for local audiences.
ions included fishing, golfing, gardening, the Atlanta Braves and a love of the English language. Friends and family were well advised never to challenge him in a game of Scrabble, or compete with him in crossword puzzling.
Ray also loved a good party, and for over thirty years, friends came to his home the evening of each full moon. These gatherings began with people who had worked together to stop a hazardous waste plant being built in Rowan County's beautiful countryside. After the group's success, the “Full Moons” began. Monthly potluck suppers brought everyone together for a good meal and good company.
To honor Ray's life, we will have a Full Moon Celebration this fall with fun, food, and a bonfire on the land and in the home he loved till his dying day. Potluck contributions welcome at that time.
Ray rescued cats and dogs all his life. Maggie, our wonder dog, was by his side until the very end. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to an animal rescue organization of your choosing.
Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Davies family. Online condolences may be made at
summersettfuneralhome.com.
Published by Salisbury Post on Jun. 8, 2025.