Henry Bennett Ray Niece

Henry "Bennett" Ray Niece, 80, of Raceland, husband, dad and pappaw, took his last earthly journey Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, surrounded by his loving wife of 63 years, Elizabeth and his family.  Bennett was born April 23, 1936, in Letcher County, to Dicy Taylor Niece Richardson and Will Niece, who preceded him in death.  He was a small-business owner in Raceland for 40 years and loved to talk with those that stopped by his furniture store. He was an avid musician and a devout Christian.  He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Short Niece; his children, Lois (Max) Karshner, Saundra Potter, Kathy (Charles) Caperton, Debi (Chris) Morris, James (Curta) Niece, Greg (MaryAnn) Niece, Tim (LeAnn) Niece, Jeff (Tracy) Niece, DeWayne Niece, Tony Niece, Renee (Shane) Ratliff and Scott (Jessie) Niece; a half-sister, Helen Jean Stambaugh; he was blessed with 18 grandchildren; seven stepgrandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. He was loved by many family members and church friends who will miss him greatly.  Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, at Bailey Family Funeral Home in Flatwoods with Pastor Scott Robinson, The Rev. J.R. Hampton and The Rev. Tim French officiating.  Visitation for family will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, for friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday and after 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.  Condolences may be sent to baileyfamilyfuneralhome.com.