With heavy hearts, we share the passing of William Ray Corley of Sunnyside, GA.
What remains is memory — and the gratitude of those he loved.
William spent his working life as ['foreman with the Georgia D'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
What we carry forward is the light others gave us.
William Ray Corley, 81, of Sunnyside, Georgia, passed away peacefully, Sunday, May 3, 2026, at home surrounded by many loved ones.
Ray was born on January 2, 1945, in Marietta, Georgia. He is preceded in death by his parents, James Bartow Corley and Margaret Ruth Smith, daughter, Cathy Lynn Corley and grandson, Matthew Todd Corley.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bonnie Corley; children and their spouses, Clifford and Wanda Corley, Michael and Dawn Corley, Wade and Stacey Corley; many grandchildren, and great grandchildren; cousin, Barbara Smith; brother and his wife, Pete and Jeanette Corley; and many nieces and nephews and extended family.
Ray was a hardworking man. Throughout his life, he had always strived to gain knowledge and pass it along to the people he met. This began early in his life, in the fifth grade, he had an opportunity through the 4H program to raise chickens in a competition. He went on to win an award and a cash prize of $25. With these earnings, he bought his very first train set, which began one of his many cherished collections. Over the years he shared his passion for nature and adventure with many during his days as a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scout Troop #8. He pursued studies at Georgia Tech. He later went on to begin a career as a foreman with the Georgia D.O.T in April of 1963 until his retirement in December of 1998. He was also passionate about helping others in need and participating in many cancer research organizations. He was very active within churches, from West Sunnyside Holiness where he grew up, to Sunnyside UMC, and Churches led by his son, Wade. One of his favorite achievements was marrying the love of his life, Bonnie, on June 15th, 1963. They spent 63 years together and grew a large close-knit family. He inspired and pushed his loved ones to keep learning and growing in life. To chase their dreams and just keep moving forward. His wisdom and guidance will be cherished and missed.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 2:00 PM from the Chapel of Haisten McCullough Funeral Home with Rev. Wade Corley officiating. Interment will follow in the West Sunnyside Holiness Cemetery.
Visitation will be on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Haisten McCullough Funeral Home.
For online condolences please visit www.haistenmcculloughfuneralhome.com.
Haisten McCullough Funeral Home, 1155 Everee Inn Road, Griffin is in charge of arrangements.
