The Reverend James Ray Millsaps, 89, entered into eternal rest at his home in Alexander County on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born on Friday, January 31, 1936, in Alexander County, he was the son of the late Rev. Amos Millsaps and Ruth Millsaps.

From a young age, Reverend Millsaps felt called to preach and follow in his father’s footsteps. He answered this calling in 1962 and was licensed in 1964 at Smith Grove Baptist Church in Hiddenite, N.C. In 1976, he was ordained and began serving as a pastor within the Yadkin and Davie Missionary Baptist Association. Reverend Millsaps is fondly remembered for his engaging sermons, particularly “The Three Little Pigs” and “The Eagle.” A gifted orator and illustrator, he touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, and infectious laughter, which could fill a room with joy.

Reverend Millsaps’s ministry was marked by a deep love for God’s Word, mentoring others, and fellowshipping with his community. He faithfully served as pastor at Knox Grove Baptist Church in Cleveland, N.C. (32 years); Redmond Creek Baptist Church in Galax, Va. (8 years); Friendship Baptist Church in Union Grove, N.C. (5 years); Pleasant Union Baptist Church in Dobson, N.C. (4 years); Union Grove Baptist Church in Roaring River, N.C. (4 years), Holy Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Hickory, N.C. (1 year); and Smith Grove Baptist Church, in Hiddenite, N.C. (1 year). In addition to his ministry, he founded and operated Millsaps Foundry for 11 successful years before closing the business due to its physical demands.

Reverend Millsaps shared 65 years of love and devotion with his wife, Rachel Helen Parsons Millsaps, who survives him. He is also survived by his children Rev. James Tuck Millsaps (Constance) of Lenoir, N.C., Beverly Linney (Melvin) of Hiddenite, N.C., Rev. Ervin Ray Millsaps of Taylorsville, N.C., Rev. Daura Torrence (Horace) of Taylorsville, N.C., Rev. Paul Millsaps (Carmen) of Del Rio, Texas, Joel Millsaps (Rita) of North Wilkesboro, N.C., Chief Michael Millsaps of Taylorsville, N.C., and Josh Millsaps (Brooke) of Asheville, N.C. His legacy lives on through his cherished 17 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, whose lives are forever enriched by his warmth and guidance. A host of other relatives and friends also survive.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Woodrow Millsaps, Rev. Dollie Millsaps, Jay (Skip) Millsaps, and Booker T. Millsaps, as well as his grandson, Jarae Millsaps, and great-grandson Hudson Ellis.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2:30 p.m. prior to his 3 p.m. funeral service at First Baptist Church, 321 W. Main Ave. Taylorsville, N.C., on Saturday, March 8, 2025. Burial will follow in the Smith Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Rev. William Little will officiate the service.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Parsons Family, Possum Hollar neighbors, and First Baptist Church as well as all those who visited, brought food, sent cards, or made phone calls during this time.
Reverend Millsaps will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generous spirit, and dedication to serving others.

He often said, “Don’t be who society calls you to be… Be who God called you to be.”

His favorite scripture was Matthew 11:3 (KJV): “And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?”

He came for him, and Rev. Millsaps looked for no other.

Reverend James Ray Millsaps’s memory will continue to inspire all who had the blessing of knowing him.

Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the family of Reverend James Ray Millsaps.