Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

July 27, 2026

CHARLOTTE - Rayner "Ray" Weir, age 96, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Ray was born on June 5, 1930, in Europe to Rober H. and Ruth S. Weir. He was raised in Boston, Massachusetts, where he developed the values of hard work and integrity. He graduated from Vermont Academy in 1949 and earned his bachelor's degree from Brown University in 1953. Following college, he continued his education at Babson College Business School and later attended Cotton Classing School in Memphis, Tennessee, preparing for a distinguished career in the cotton and textile recycling industry.

In 1954, Ray joined his family's business, becoming the third generation to carry on a legacy that began with the founding of the New England Waste Company in 1894. The company later became Newco Fibre Company in 1968. Throughout his career, Ray earned the admiration of colleagues, competitors, and employees alike through his integrity, leadership, and unmatched knowledge of the cotton industry. He was named President of Newco Fibre Company in 1976 and faithfully served in that role until his retirement in 2001. He was deeply respected throughout the industry and was beloved by the employees who worked alongside him over the years.

Ray's leadership extended far beyond his own company. He served as President of the Charlotte Textile Waste Club, Inc. in 1969 and as President of the Textile Fibers and By-Products Association from 1970 to 1971. Throughout his career, he served on numerous committees and organizations dedicated to the cotton and textile industries, where his insight, wisdom, and commitment earned him the respect of all his peers. 

Early in life, Ray enjoyed playing tennis and snow skiing. He had a lifelong love of collecting maps and was always a passionate boater and sailor. He became a member of the Charlotte Power Squadron in 1960, where he proudly served as Commander from 1967 to 1968 and earned an extraordinary 50 Merit Marks in recognition of his decades of dedicated service and volunteerism.

One of the greatest blessings of Ray's life began with a blind date. It didn't take Ray very long to figure out that Adele Wilson would be the love of his life, and they would build a beautiful marriage together that spanned for over 66 years. Adele and Ray both shared the love of classical music and traveling the world. Together they visited countless destinations, but none was beloved more than their vacation house at Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. They cherished the times they spent there with loved ones and family, and exploring the marshes in their Jon boat. Their love was marked by unwavering devotion, shared adventures, and countless memories made together.

Above all else, Ray treasured his family. He especially delighted in being "Opa" to his grandchildren, Braxton, Adele, and Banks, a role that brought him immeasurable happiness and pride.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Robert H. Weir and Ruth S. Weir; his brother and sister-in-law, Peter F. and Jean Weir; his sister and brother-in-law, Sybil Weir and John Galm; his brothers-in-law, Leonard "Zeke" Wilson and James D. Wilson; and niece, Dana Wilson.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 66 years, Adele Wilson Weir; his children, R. Wilson Weir and Susan A. Weir; his beloved grandchildren, Braxton Weir, Adele Weir, and Banks Weir; four nephews; five nieces; his sisters-in-law, Zaida Wilson and Barbara Wilson; and Patricia Weekly.

The Weir family extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the incredible caregivers at The Cypress of Charlotte and VIA Health Partners for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Ray. Adele, Wilson, and Susan wish to express their deepest appreciation to Renee Helms for the extraordinary love, compassion, and dedicated care she provided during Ray's final days.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Sardis Presbyterian Church, 6100 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28270. A reception will immediately follow the service at the church. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed through the church's YouTube channel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ray's memory to the Children's Home Society of North Carolina Donate to Support Children and Families in NC.

Ray lived a life marked by integrity, humility, and generosity. Whether leading an industry, sailing the waters he loved, or spending time with his family, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His legacy of leadership, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those he loved will continue to inspire generations to come. Ray was among the fortunate ones that left this earth with no regrets...it was a life well lived. 

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.