Steve Ray Drye

Steve Ray Drye, age 76, of Mountain Home, Tennessee, formerly of Albemarle, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Mountain Home, Tennessee surrounded by his loving family. A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Pastor Ron Loflin. Burial will follow at Stanly Gardens of Memory. Born on August 13, 1949, in Stanly County, Steve was the son of the late Willard Heath Drye and Marcelle Hinson Page, and J.D. Page (Stepfather). He was a 1968 graduate of Albemarle High School and a proud U.S. Army veteran, having served in Vietnam with honor and distinction. Following his military service, Steve earned a degree in Criminal Justice and dedicated his career to helping others through his work with the Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention at the Stonewall Jackson Youth Development Center. Steve is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Kathy Padgett Drye; his children, Michael Drye (Jennifer) and Crystal Robinson (Richard); grandchildren, Katelyn, Hailey, Sarah, Jean, Jakob, and Noah; great-grandchildren, Malakai and Madeline; brother, Wayne Drye; sister, Joyce Osborn (Ken); as well as two nephews, one niece, and countless friends who felt like family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Drye. A man of great faith, Steve lived with compassion and humility. He had a special gift for connecting with others, and those who met him often became lifelong friends. He was an amateur astronomer who loved gazing at the night sky, always finding wonder in the stars. Whether through his work, his church, or simple daily conversations, Steve touched many lives and will be remembered for his gentle spirit, generosity, and unwavering kindness. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Stroke Association, in honor of Steve’s memory and the challenges he faced with courage and grace. The Drye family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the VA Medical Center in Johnson City for their compassionate care and support during Steve’s declining health. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is serving the Drye family.

Steve Ray Drye

August 13, 1949 - August 30, 2025