John Ray, age 46 of Horse Cave, KY, passed away Monday, February 23, 2026 at the University of Louisville Hospital. He was a 1998 graduate of Caverna High School where he played basketball. He was an avid University of Kentucky Basketball Fan “Go Cats”. He enjoyed fishing and being outdoors. He was a great friend to many people, he enjoyed the company of others and had a very infectious personality. Having a large extended family, he was a loved plus one member of the “Stockton Five”. In his younger years he grew up with Tennessee Walking horses, it was a bond he shared with his father. His son, Connor, was his pride and joy, he was honored to be his daddy.

He is the son of Freddy Ray and Shelia Sartin Ray, Edmonton, KY.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Richard and Helen Sartin; his paternal grandparents, John Ray, Jr. and Maxine.

He is survived by his son, Connor Ray, Cave City, KY; his parents; his brother, Walker Veal (Darlene), Nashville, TN; his sister, Jane Wright (Jason), Glasgow, KY; two nieces, Britteny Veal, Horse Cave, KY, and Sarah Wright, Glasgow, KY; his dog, Lola; his uncles, Ricky Sartin (Marilee) and Todd Sartin, both of Louisville, KY.

The family will welcome friends from 10:00 AM- 3:00 PM CT on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Brooks Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM CT on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Brooks Funeral Home with Bro. Aaron Trimm officiating. Honoring John’s wishes, cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his honor to Brooks Funeral Home.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.brooksfuneralhomeky.com