A visitation for Lewis Ray Hedgpeth will be held on Wednesday, May 20th, 2026, from 5-8 PM at Webb and Stephens-North. A service will be held on Thursday, May 21st, 2026, at 11 AM, with Bro. John Cash opening the service, Rev. Mitchell McDonald leading the service, and Bro. John Temple with closing words. Followed by a graveside at New Hope Church located at 12286 Old Jackson Rd., Dekalb, MS, 39328.

Lewis Ray Hedgpeth was born on December 24th, 1947, in Dekalb, MS, to Joesph Leon and Mildred Hedgpeth. Ray passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep, on May 17, 2026.

Ray served in the Mississippi Army National Guard for 7 years. He also had 50 years of dedicated service to the Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company. He began his career as a salesman, was promoted to area supervisor, and retired as the General Sales Manager. He was also a devoted member of New Hope Church of Dekalb, MS. He was involved in the community for multiple decades as a coach for Little League Baseball in the surrounding areas.

Ray had the nickname “Hushpuppy” from his time hunting in Kemper County. He loved quail hunting at Dancing Rabbit Quail Preserve. In his later years he enjoyed deer hunting and having coffee with his cherished wife often reminding everyone, "You gotta be there when they're there.”

Ray was always willing to help people in his community and would never meet a stranger. He enjoyed tinkering in his shop and keeping up his yard.

Ray loved gospel music and cherished his Grandkids immensely. He also made sure to always take care of his wife, Carol, for the nearly 44 years they were together. He never wanted her to worry about anything.

Ray’s steady presence, quiet strength, and love for his family will be deeply missed and forever remembered. One of his most cherished compliments is one he received from his Aunt Annie Waddell, “He’s the same yesterday and today, and will be forever”

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Leon and Mildred Elaine Hedgpeth, and brother, James “Jimmy” Leon Hedgpeth.

Ray is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Lynda Carol McKee Hedgpeth; Sons, Kevin Ray Hedgpeth, Lance Ray Dunnigan, and Dustin “Dusty” Craig Hedgpeth (Brittney Lea); Grandchildren, Brittany Ellen Roberson (Hayden), Luke Hunter Hedgpeth, Miranda Kay Dunnigan, Boston Parker and Mary Katherine; brother, William “Billy Joe” Joseph Hedgpeth (Cheryl); 5 Great Grandchildren and a host of special cousins.

Pallbearers will be Chris Gavin, Matt Kennedy, Chris Luker, Lee Martin, Joe Fairchild, and Scott Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be David Little, David Cotton, Gary Gordon, R. W. Williams, Richard Ferguson, and Bobby McDade.

The family finds comfort in knowing he has been reunited with friends and family who have also been called HOME!