Dorsey Owen Ray, 92, of Indianola, passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at South Sunflower County Hospital in Indianola.

Dorsey was born April 8, 1931, in Drew, to Forest and Virgie Norwood Ray. He was raised in Drew where he graduated from Drew High School. After graduating, he attended Mississippi State University prior to enlisting in the United States Navy. Dorsey married the love of his life, Carolyn Ellis, on August 11, 1951. He was a gentle and patient man and truly was an embodiment of the fruits of the spirit. After his discharge from the Navy, he began his civilian life as a builder and moved from Clarksdale to Greenville. Then he became partners and eventually owner of Virden Lumber Company in Indianola. He built commercial and residential properties for over 40 years prior to his retirement.  Dorsey was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  He enjoyed dancing at Lillo's, bass fishing, white water trout fishing, playing golf, and spending time at the beach. He was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Indianola.

Dorsey was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Luevenia Ray McShan.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Carolyn Ellis Ray of Indianola; three children, Cindy Lucas (George) of Oxford, Owen Ray (Lucy Allen) of Germantown, Tennessee, and Lisa Bennett (Greg) of Laurel; six grandchildren, Greg Yurkow (Natalie), Andrew Yurkow, Mary Kate Yurkow Duke (Edward), Allen Ray Pillai (Raj), David Ray (Lauren) and Owen Ray (Jordan); eleven great grandchildren; two nephews, Jim Ellis (Freda) and Bruce McShan (Ramona); and niece, Jenny Ellis Gladden (Paul).

Visitation will be held Friday, March 15, 2024, from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, at First Baptist Church in Indianola. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm, with Dr. Guy Burke officiating. The burial will be in Indianola City Cemetery following the service. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.