Melvin Ray Benge, 74, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at his residence.

Ray was born April 16, 1951, in Iredell County to the late Clay Marshall Benge and Elsie Erma Head Benge. He was a graduate of North Iredell High School, and he attended Mitchell Community College, where he received an associate degree. He served in the U.S. Army as a member of the Honor Guard for two years. Ray was an active member of Bible Baptist Church. He enjoyed woodworking and hunting, and he dearly loved his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister, Wanda Gail Benge.

Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 47 years, Sylvia Hoover Benge; son, Michael Ray Benge (Heather); daughter-in-law, Kristy Isenhour Benge; grandson, Alex Benge; granddaughter, Abby Benge (Ashton Wyatt); great-grandchildren, Silas Wyatt and Cadence Hartness; brother, Larry Benge (Glenda); sister, Carol Jones (Allen); and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date, which will be announced by Troutman Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bible Baptist Church, 228 Gilbert Road, Statesville, NC 28677.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Benge family.