Hatcher, Donald Ray

Donald Ray Hatcher (Sonny Ray), 79, of Floyd, passed away on Saturday June 18, 2022. Ray was born on November 9th, 1942, the son of Donald D. and Sylvia Boyd Hatcher. He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances W Hatcher.

Ray is survived by his partner in crime of 33 years, Bethel G. Reinhard; daughter, Brenda Vest (Mike); son, Stephen R. Hatcher; sister, Diane H. Reynolds; brother, Micky Hatcher (Carolyn), stepchildren, Kim Rossini (Jeff), Johnny Reinhard Jr (Laura), Laura Reinhard, Eric Reinhard (Amanda); 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews who all adored him. Ray also leaves hundreds of good friends including Lane Robinson and Gino Williams, who he loved seeing.

Ray Graduated from Floyd High School In 1961 and then enlisted in the United States Navy. He served as a dental tech during his four years of service. Ray returned to Floyd to take over the family business which became Ray’s Rest. Ray’s was known for cold beer and his world famous Hatcherburgers. Ray took great pride in the quality of his food and the service provided at Ray’s. It was not unusual to be far from Floyd and see one of his Ray’s Rest T-shirts.

Ray enjoyed car racing as a driver and as a fan, one in particular being Dale Earnhardt Sr. He also loved New Orleans where he could pull up a stool and talk to someone who might be as interesting as he was. Ray never met a stranger and would strike up a conversation with anyone he met. Ray was always willing to support good causes such as Floyd County Rescue squad, Floyd County Fire Department, and Floyd County Sherriff Office.

Ray Hatcher was one of a kind and lived his life to the fullest. Do not grieve over his passing, instead share a “Ray story” with someone when you get a chance.

Donations to remember Ray may be made to Floyd County Rescue Squad at 452 Floyd Hwy N, Floyd, VA 24091, or a charity of your choice.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 25, 2022, at 2pm at Gardner Funeral Home with Rev. Roy Turpin officiating. Family will receive friends after the service from 3pm- 5pm at the Funeral Home.