Billy Ray James, 83, of Green Bend Road, Morehead, passed away Saturday, February 13, 2016, at St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead. Born August 17, 1932, at Old House Creek in Rowan County, he was a son of the late Ray James and Nelvie Marie Christian James Layne. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Robert Joseph 'Joe' James, and one granddaughter, Nelvie Stacy James. Billy Ray is survived by his wife of 62 years, Peggy Joe Royse James, whom he married July 2, 1953; one son, William Ray (Brenda) James of Farmers; two daughters, Debra James and Diana (Frank) Clark, all of Farmers; five grandchildren, Robert Joe James, Brandon James, Jesse James, Richie James, and Sean Plank; and two great grandchildren, Lilly James and Gabby James. Following his high school graduation, Billy Ray served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Upon his return, he entered Morehead State University where he received both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education. Prior to entering the teaching profession, he enjoyed a variety of jobs such as a door-to-door salesman, surveying tobacco bases for the government, and selling insurance. Billy Ray spent more than 30 years with the Rowan County Board of Education as a teacher, school social worker, and maintenance supervisor, retiring in 1988. Billy Ray thoroughly enjoyed working with the students, other teachers, and staff members and was well known for his story telling and sense of humor. Following his retirement, he enjoyed logging, working at his sawmill, farming, fishing, and boating at Cave Run Lake. He especially enjoyed taking care of his grandchildren and spending time with his family and his dogs, Ellie Mae and Popcorn. A memorial service will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2016, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor Rusty Hedrick officiating and full military honors presented by Morehead American Legion Post 126. Interment will be in the James Family Cemetery at Slaty Point. Visitation is from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2016, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals in Morehead. Visitation: Wednesday, February 17, 2016, 5 p.m.-7 p.m.Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Funeral: Wednesday, February 17, 2016, 7 p.m., Northcutt & Son Memorial Chapel Interment: James Family Cemetry, Slaty Point