Raye Scism

After several years of declining health, Doris Raye Washburn Scism, 96,  passed away peacefully on September 1, 2021 at Cleveland Pines.

Born to Joe C. and Estilla McSwain Washburn on December 5, 1924 in Cleveland County, North Carolina, she was one of 14 children. Growing up in the Double Springs Community, she graduated from Lattimore High School and furthered her education at Gardner Webb University (then Gardner Webb Junior College). Raye established her career in the medical field and worked as a nurse for Boiling
Springs Medical Associates for more than 40 years assisting her physician brothers, Dr. Wyan Washburn and Dr. Gene Washburn.

Raye loved the Lord and was faithful in serving Him. A life long member of Double Springs Baptist Church, she spent many years as a Sunday School teacher and choir member. She also played in the handbell choir, served on many committees and was a member of the Women’s Missionary Union and the Joy Club.

Before her health failed, Raye enjoyed traveling in the states and abroad. Three travel experiences were especially memorable for her: mission trips to Cape Town, South Africa, Zambia, and Poland. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, gardening and family reunions.

Raye cherished time spent with her loving family and treasured friends. She was a special aunt who became “Aunt Raye” to many of the staff and administration at Cleveland Pines. The family expresses our gratitude to all of them for the love and care given to her.

In addition to her parents, Raye was preceded in death by her husband Warren G. Scism (Uncle W.G.), brothers, Dr. Wyan Washburn (Emily), Reburn Washburn (Beatrice), Seth Washburn (Ruby), Dietz Washburn (Elizabeth), Gaines Washburn (Lela Belle), Dan Washburn (Betty), and Dr. Gene Washburn (Billie) and Twyman Washburn, as well as sisters, Ruby Bridges (Dufaye), Dorothy Hamrick Edwards (Shannon, Talmadge), and Mary L. Wilson (Herschel). She is survived by her niece and primary caregiver, Ann W. McSwain (Pete) and other niece caregivers, Dianne Garner, Terry Royster, Linda Wilson, and Ellen Gragg (Larry). Additionally, a large number of nieces and nephews and extended family members who loved her very much.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 2:00pm at  Double Springs Baptist Church. A visitation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Double Springs Baptist Church, 1130 Double Springs Church Road Shelby, NC 28150 and the Joe and Estilla Washburn Memorial Scholarship Fund at Gardner Webb, 110 S Main St, Boiling Springs, NC 28017.