Ray Estial Shirley

Ray Estial Shirley, age 77, of Lakemont, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025.

Ray was born on April 6, 1948, in Rabun County to the late Fred Shirley and Bertha Welborn Shirley.

Bowling and golf brought him great joy, and he was admired for his bowling talent. He also held a lifelong devotion to the Atlanta Braves. Ray also enjoyed camping and fishing, spending much of his free time outdoors. He was instrumental in starting P and R Auto Sales in Clayton, which later became Rabun Motors, and worked in the auto sales industry in Clayton for more than 20 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Shirley Haak (Bill) of St. Petersburg, FL; his son, Daniel Shirley of St. Petersburg, FL; two stepsons, James Holcomb and Ricky Holcomb; granddaughters, Briana Stephens Busch (Brandon), Kalie Shirley, Charlotte Holcomb, and Martha Holcomb; great-granddaughters, Braelynn Busch, Amelia Busch, and Rowan Busch; and his cousin, Barbara Pitts (Bill).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette Holcomb Shirley, and his brothers, Dalton Shirley, Denver Shirley, and Calvo Shirley.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, October 2, 2025, in the Chapel of Hunter Funeral Home with Anthony Worley officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM until the service hour.

Hunter Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ray Shirley. Condolences may be shared at www.hunterfuneralhomega.com or you may contact us at (706) 782-4243 for any further questions.