James Ray Rivenbark

October 2, 1956 - March 10, 2019
James Ray Rivenbark

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James Ray Rivenbark age 62 of Wilmington passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2019.

Ray was born in Wilmington to Horace Raeford Rivenbark and Margaret Aline Allen Rivenbark. He was a graduate of New Hanover High School and was a retired Train Conductor from CSX Railroad.

Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and spreading joy with cooking food for his friends and family. He was an avid Duke fan, and also loved reminiscing his childhood with his friends John Wayne and Clint Eastwood.

Ray is survived by his wife, Heather Rake Rivenbark; son and daughter in law James “Firetruck” Rivenbark and Anna Rivenbark; step daughter, Brandi Shea Lennon and grandchildren, Aiden and Liam. Sister, Faye Barnhill; nephews Timmy and Jesse Barnhill; and his best buddy, “Bubba”.

Memorial service will be held 12 noon Saturday, March 16, 2019 at Wilmington Funeral Chapel officiated by Pastor Buster West.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to The Amputee Coalition by visiting www.amputee-coalition.org.

Share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Condolence” tab.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-9099


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  • March 14, 2019
    Debbie Barnhill Berry says:
    We are so saddened by Ray's passing but he has left us with some pretty good memories. What a character! Fay, Timmy and Jess: We love you so much. So happy you are all together and have each other.

  • May 12, 2019
    dave says:
    I am so sorry for your loss , Loosing a loved one is traumatic and very difficult. However the Bible says at Rev. 21:4 - “ And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” May the God who gives us this comfort be with the family at this time.

  • March 18, 2019
    Ron and Sharon Harris says:
    Heather, you have been deeply in our thoughts. We are so very sorry.

  • March 16, 2019
    Sharon Rice lit a candle:
    Lit since March 16, 2019 at 3:39:02 PM

  • March 16, 2019
    Sharon Rice lit a candle:
    Lit since March 16, 2019 at 3:16:45 PM