Tarboro -

Tremain "Ray" Johnson, Jr., age 66, passed away early Sunday morning at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital in Tarboro, NC. Ray was born in Edgecombe County on November 26, 1957, the only child of proud parents, Tremain and Alice Ruth Johnson.

Ray lived a colorful life filled with music, adventures, and many lasting friendships from his "Tar-Bo-Rah" days. He was an extremely gifted musician having developed the ability to play the piano and organ by ear, almost effortlessly and always beautifully. He was often requested to play for a variety of events including weddings, funerals, birthdays, etc. He was close with his family and devoted to his parents. Ray was definitely his own man, marching to the beat of his own drum, but always happy and a good friend to those who loved him.

Ray will be deeply missed by his loving family that includes his closest cousins, Beverly Burris, Cathy Kelly, Melanie Thompson, Brenda Coker, Willie Webb, and Joe White; uncle, Milton Johnson; aunt, Tetie Hopkins; and his beloved, faithful little pup, Pierre, along with many friends and other extended relatives.

A Celebration of Ray's Life will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, February 1, 2024 at Word of Life International, 3388 McNair Road, Tarboro, NC.  The family will receive friends prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 pm.