John Mack Ray passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2016 after an extended illness. Born September 15, 1941 in Marshall, Oklahoma to Grover and Verna Ray. As a child, the family moved to California and he spent the rest of his year's in the Bakersfield/Shafter Area. Following his father, John joined Local 460 as a pipeline welder where he recently received his 55 year pin & certificate. When he wasn't working, John spent what little free time he had on his hobbies. He was an avid fisherman, enjoying both short & long range fishing trips. He always had a giant garden, supplying tomatoes to family, friends & local restaurants. He enjoyed eating more than the average person, always ready for a family BBQ, fish fry, pot luck or meal at the Red Wagon. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Susan Ray, son Adams Ray, daughter & son-in-law Tammy & Steve Thullen, granddaughters Sarah & Daniel Agnitsch; Melissa & Jeremy McGuire; sisters, Ginny & Darrell Alspaw and Joy & Jim Campbell, and multiple cousins, nieces & nephews, all of whom he loved dearly. The Ray family would like to thank all of the many friends and family members who helped during his illness, with a special thank you to Harry Geivet & Ronnie Johnston who both went above & beyond! Memorial service for John will be held at the Shafter Free Will Baptist Church, 155 Redwood Drive, Shafter, CA 93263 on Friday, August 26th at 11am.