Ray Neal Vaught

Mr. Ray “Papa Neal” Neal Vaught, 96, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024. He was born in Wythe County, Virginia on July 26, 1928 to Raymond Vaught and Lessie Sage Vaught. Neal began driving a truck at the young age of 15, and continued for the majority of his life until he was 80 years old. He worked for Hennis Trucking Company for many years and then later retired from Wisecarver Trucking Company. Neal loved tractors and anything to do with farming. He had a contagious laugh and incredible sense of humor. Neal was an avid Atlanta Braves baseball fan. His love for baseball continues on through his great-grandson, Korbin, whom he enjoyed sharing stories with and hearing how his games would go. He loved his family more than anything. Neal will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Della, Con, Roy, Carl, and Edna, and a special friend, Ellon Ratledge. He is survived by a son, David (Ronda) Vaught; grandchildren, Jameson (Summer) Vaught, Jennifer (Brian) Booe, and Dawn Elam; great-grandson, Korbin Booe; brother, Emory Vaught; nieces, Nancy Matney, Sue Hounshell, and Maryanne Poff; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Monday, July 29, 2024 at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville. A funeral service will follow in the Gentry Family Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made in Ray’s honor to SECU Hospice Home. The family would like to say a special thank you to SECU Hospice Home for the loving and compassionate care given to Ray and his family. Gentry Family Funeral Service of Yadkinville is serving the Vaught family.