TJ Ray

TJ Ray; our loving Grandpa who was born on May 1, 1930 went peacefully to be with the Lord and Savior on Monday, July 13, 2015 at the age of 85 in Grand Rapids, MI. He was born in Centreville, MS to Annie Ray (McKinley), the youngest of 3 sons; his brothers LC, and Willie Lee along with his mother have preceded him in death.  He came to Grand Rapids as a young man and began his career at Butterworth Hospital, where he was very well respected as a co-worker and friend. After 38 years of service he retired to begin to enjoy his life, gardening, family and friends. He was married to Willie Lee Cotton for 41 years and together they reared a daughter Lucille, as well as grandkids, before Willie Lee’s passing in March of 1995.  He had a strong belief in Christ and knew that he was loved by all, he was affectionately called “Mr. Ray” or “Mr. TJ” by several of his friends and neighbors. He believed in family and had a heart of gold to all that he interacted with; even though he could sometimes be pretty stern it was in his nature. He enjoyed good meals (especially Burger King) and just hanging out on the porch in the summertime talking to neighbors, or sitting in the car soaking in the sunshine.  He is survived by his Daughter Lucille (Kenneth) Pepper of Cascade, MI, 2 granddaughters Robin Cotton of Caledonia, MI and Nina (Phillip Sr.) Morrow of Kentwood, MI; 3 great grandchildren Chad, Phillip Jr. and Christina all of whom loved and will miss him dearly. 2 sister in laws; Elaine (Jessie) Strickland of Grand Rapids, MI., and Yvonne (Lonnie) Blakely of Baton Rouge, LA; along with a host of nieces and nephew and other relatives with a special friend John D. Jefferson. The family would like to thank all of those that helped in the care of Mr. Ray. Services will be at Metcalf & Jonkhoff chapel on Friday, July 17, 2015 at 11am.   The family will receive friends one hour prior to services from 10 to 11am. 

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