Raymond (Ray) Eugene Ebert, Jr.

Raymond Eugene Ebert, Jr. 87, of Salemtowne Retirement Community, died peacefully, September 17, 2025. Mr. Ebert was born November 14, 1937 in Forsyth County, the son of Raymond Eugene Ebert and Julia Wolff Ebert. Ray grew up loving music, playing tuba at Friedland Moravian Church where his family attended. His love of music continued as he played the sousaphone and string bass at Reynolds High School. He graduated from Wake Forest University followed by Union Theological Seminary earning a Masters of Sacred Music. After serving in the US Army, Ray worked as a church organist in New York, New Jersey and Georgia before returning to his hometown. In 1970, when his teacher and friend, Margaret Sandresky, stepped down as the organist at Centenary Methodist Church, Ray found a home for the next 40 years. A friend once remarked that, “there are few organs in the area that Ray hasn’t played.” He could be found at Temple Emmanuel Synagogue playing for regular Friday evening services, in dance classes at UNCSA and Wake Forest, playing the Aeolian organ at Reynolda House and in the bell tower at Wake Forest as the carillonneur. His love of music was not limited to Winston-Salem. Ray played concerts in the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, at the Kennedy Center, in the White House and countless other events large and small. He will be remembered, not only as a musician but a friend to many with his quick wit and kind words.

Mr. Ebert is survived by his sister, Sarah Brent, his cousin Jim Bunn, his three nephews and their wives: Charlie and Vickie Brent, Michael and Brenda Brent, Bill and Tiffany Brent and ten great-nephews and nieces.

Visitation with be September 23, 2025 at 10:00, at Friedland Moravian Church preceding the funeral service. His funeral will begin with an organ prelude. The Rev. John Rights will lead the service. Memorials may be made to Friedland Moravian Church, 2750 Friedland Church Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27107. J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home in Winston-Salem is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent to the Ebert family at www.jcgreenandsons.com

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