Our Company
History
Ray & Allen Funeral Service was first established in 1938 by Jesse Ray, Sr. Mr. Ray served the funeral and burial needs of Western North Carolina families for over 56 years. In 1994, Jesse Ray, Jr. assumed management of the business and in 1996 the Ray family purchased Allen & Associates Mortuary to form Ray and Allen Funeral Service. Today, the Ray family serves the funeral, burial and cremation needs of families from many diverse cultural and religious backgrounds in Western North Carolina.
At a time of death, you want someone who understands your needs. You can take comfort in knowing that our licensed and experienced staff will handle all of the details in providing your loved one with a final tribute that is meaningful to you and your family.
Our Staff
Jesse Ray, Jr.
Jesse Ray, Jr. is a second generation funeral director, who has directed the company for the past 14 years. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in business and acquired managerial experience from both the private and public sector. Jesse served as an Area Manager for Progress Energy and Special Assistant to the Chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Asheville. His goal is to continue to position the company as one that provides cremation and funeral services to people of multicultural and diverse religious backgrounds in the Asheville community.
Bryant Ray
Bryant Ray is a third generation family member and is the Office Manager. He is a native of Asheville and attended the local public schools. In 2009, Bryant completed his first year as a registered Funeral Service Apprentice and is enrolled at A B Technical College. He is working to obtain an associate degree in Funeral Service from Fayetteville Technical College. His goal is to continue the family business and provide an opportunity for his son, Bryant Ray, II.
Larry McIntosh
Larry McIntosh, with over 20 years experience, is a licensed funeral director and embalmer. He obtained an associate degree in Funeral Service from Fayetteville Technical College. He is also a certified pathology assistant and provides consultation to Mission Hospitals. Larry takes pride in providing personal and quality service to all families.
Daniel Wenkel
Daniel Wenkel is a licensed funeral director and embalmer. He obtained an associate degree in Funeral Service from Gupton Jones College of Mortuary Science, Atlanta, GA. Daniel has been in the funeral industry for 15 years.
Benjamin Hall
Benjamin Hall was an employee of the former Allen & Associates Mortuary and has continued his service with Ray & Allen Funeral Service. As a Funeral Service Assistant, Benjamin brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the diverse, multicultural community to the company.
Patricia Offord
Patricia Offord recently retired from Customer Service with Wachovia Bank and is pursuing a second career as a funeral service licensee. She is currently enrolled part-time at Asheville Buncombe Technical College to obtain an associate’s degree in Funeral Service from Fayetteville Technical College.
Fernando Torres
Fernando Torres, a native of Mexico, provides Spanish translation for the company. Fernando learned firsthand about funeral service as he was responsible for the local arrangements and return of his brother’s remains to Mexico.
Juanita Brown
Juanita Brown returned to Asheville after completing a 25 year career with the U S Army and Department of Defense. She serves as Administrative Assistant for Jesse Ray at Sunset Cemetery.
Leonard Karle Mapp
Leonard Karle Mapp brings a variety of skills and experiences to the organization. He had a previous career in product sales, but most recently is a mentor for mentally challenged middle school students. His passion includes music and landscape architecture. He manages the landscape and maintenance for the funeral facility and Sunset Cemetery.
Nathaniel Brooks, Walt Robertson, John Ryan, James Shade , and Hayes Tobe are Funeral Service Assistants and complete our team. They perform a variety of duties and provide special services to families.