Ray Burrow

Alton "Ray" Burrow II, 42, of Raeford, passed away Thursday, May 11, 2017 at his home surrounded by his wife and children. Ray was given the gift of life, but God chose for him to give it back. Ray was a heroic man, who led a blessed life, and for this we are eternally grateful. Ray was born September 27, 1974 in Robeson County to Alton and Barbara Burrow. He lived and loved life to the fullest. Along the way, he made lifelong friends from all walks of life. Throughout his life he accomplished much, but his greatest accomplishments are his three children, Zaidee, Ava, and Nathan, who will no doubt carry out his legacy. On the day of Rays diagnosis, November 3, 2014, he made a commitment to himself and his family to Fight Durty and inspire others through his perseverance in this journey. He made his fight an open book for the world to see that no matter what trials and tribulations you face, love always wins. Through this, Gods work was accomplished in him. Even on his toughest days, he managed to smile and make others laugh. His family remained his top priority. Rays love for his family fueled his determination to fight until the very end. Love truly does conquer all. Ray is survived by his wife of 19 years, Christy Burrow, daughters, Zaidee and Ava Burrow, and son Nathan Burrow; parents Alton and Barbara Burrow; sister Belinda Davis (Keith); five nieces, Jasmine Long (Tanner), Marley Long, Amber Walker, Brooke Billinger, Josalyn Billinger; one nephew, Trey Long; five great nieces, Harper Long, Teagan Baith, Rrhianna Billinger, Miya Locklear, Mila Locklear; two great nephews, Jordyn Billinger, Brodie Baith; in-laws: Jerry and Kathy Long, Chris Long and Melissa Fraser, Casey Long, Jonathan Fraser and a multitude of family and friends who loved him dearly. Ray was preceded in death by his sister, Cindy Billinger. Rays wife, Christy, and their children would like to thank all of their family, friends, and even those unknown to them for the many acts of kindness, love, and prayers that have been so generously given to them. A special thank you to the Hoke County community for supporting the family during this time. From the bottom of their hearts, they thank every single medical professional who took part in fighting this disease with Ray. UNC Hospital became his second home: a place that he did not dread because he knew he would always be well taken care of and loved. To Rays hospice nurse; although your time with Ray was short, you provided their family with enough comfort and compassion to last them a lifetime. They are forever grateful to everyone who supported them through this journey. If Rays journey has taught you anything, its apparent that life is not always fair, but through human compassion and love, may you always find the strength to... Fight Durty. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 19, 2017 at JW Turlington School, 116 W. Prospect Ave in Raeford between the hours of 6:00 and 9:00 pm. Funeral services will be held 3:00 pm on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at JW Turlington School. Burial will be in the Shiloh Presbyterian Church Cemetery. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sE0y33y9yLY

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