Our Heavenly Father has again reminded us of the uncertainty of human life by calling from us our beloved father, grandfather, brother uncle, cousin and friend.

Willie Louis Ray Sr. was born June 27, 1940 in Rome, Georgia and he was the third child born unto Charlie and Julia Ray.  He attended Springfield and Akron Public Schools.  He accepted Jesus Christ at an early age.

Willie joined the United States Army in 1959 and served in the U. S. and Germany through 1963.  After serving in the military, he worked for Chrysler Automobile Company briefly before starting his career in construction.  Willie retired from Kenmore Construction Company after 25 years of service and was a member of the Ohio Laborers Union.

In 1963, Willie Louis Ray met Jacqueline Carter and they were united in holy matrimony in 1966.  They were married for 17 years and to this union two children were born, Ella and Willie Jr.  Willie was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed hunting and loved spending most of his time fishing.  It didn’t matter if it was a local lake, like Wingfoot or a larger one like, Lake Erie, he was bound to come home with plenty of fish.  Some of his happiest times were spent on his 22 footer Bayline Trophy Edition boat fishing with family and friends.

Willie had a great sense of humor and loved to joke with his family and friends alike.  Whenever you came in contact with him, he would address you in one or two ways, “Hey jiggaboo what’s up?” or “Don’t have me wear my knee cap out on you.” He was a very giving soul and would give willingly to anyone who asked.

On September 11, 2017 at the age of 77 years and two months, Willie Louis Ray Sr., was called home by the Lord. The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty, yet their span is but toil and trouble, they are soon gone, and we fly away. Psalm 90:10.

Willie Louis Ray Sr., was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Julia Ray; sister, Joycelyn Kelker; brothers, Milburn Cantrell, Robert Ray and Reginald Ray Sr.  He leaves to cherish his memories, daughter, Ella Ray (Reginal) Thornton of Indianapolis, IN; son, Willie (Chrissy) Ray Jr. of Parma, OH; ex-wife, Jackie Ray; sisters Betty Keith, Ella Mae Beverly, Helen (Preston) Kelker, Margie McKinstry, Patricia (John) Penson, Dorothy (Nate) Manson, Carol Ray; brothers, John Ray, Charlie Ray Jr., Joe Ray and Eddie Ray; grandchildren, Kayla and Reginal Jr. (Thornton), Willie III, and Jazimine Ray, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.