Local Soldier Killed

A Weaverville soldier is among three killed in a roadside bombing in Iraq. Sergeant Thomas Ray, II was serving with the 1132nd NC National Guard unit based in Rocky Mount. He and two others soldiers were hit by an IED, during a patrol, Saturday in Baghdad.

Sgt. David Williams of Tarboro and Specialist David Stelmat of Littleton, New Hampshire were also killed in Saturday's attack.

Sgt. Ray began his military service in 1985, when he joined the Navy. He joined the North Carolina National Guard in 2006. His military police company mobilized last June of 2007, with about 120-soldiers going to Iraq.

Sgt. Ray leaves behind a wife and daughter who live in Weaverville.

His wife Linda released a statement through the National Guard saying: "He wanted to save lives and bring back the younger guys. He's a loving husband and father who is irreplaceable and will be greatly missed."

Sgt. Ray's mother, Ozelle Ray says, "I'm incredibly proud of my son. He gave his life doing what he wanted to do, and I can live with that."

The family will receive friends on Monday, March 31st, at West Funeral Home in Weaverville between 6-8pm. Sgt. Ray's funeral is Tuesday, April 1st, at 10am, with interment at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery following at noon.