Charles Ray Summerford, age 83, of DeGray, passed from this life on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at his home.  He was born July 25, 1938, in Persons Bridge, AR, the son of the late Benjamin Franklin and Novie Robertson Summerford.  Charles was a 1956 graduate of Star City High School.  He received his BSCE from the University of Arkansas in January of 1960 and his MSCE from Mississippi State in January of 1969.  Charles was the President of Summerford Engineering, Inc. in Arkadelphia.  He was a member of Third Street Baptist Church.  Charles enjoyed hunting and fishing in his free time.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Ginger Kay Summerford, one brother and sister in law, James and Nancy Summerford.

Charles is survived by his wife of fifty-nine years, Martha Richenback Summerford of Arkadelphia, one son, Thomas Ray Summerford of Arkadelphia, one daughter, Amy Jo Williams (Andy) of Arkadelphia, and one granddaughter, Alexis Margaret Summerford of Arkadelphia.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, December 9, 2021, at Third Street Baptist Church with Bro. Greg Lathem officiating.

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until service time at the church.

Interment will be in DeGray Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Harley Hillary, Bill Wright, Andy Stricklin, Mike Miley, Charlie Williams and Irwin Seale.

Honorary pallbearers are Johnny Mack Holloway, Crandall Duncan, Joey Smith, David Holcomb, Jason Jackson and Keith Daniels.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society of Arkansas, P.O. Box 16328, Little Rock, AR 72231.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia.  Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.