Stephen Dennis Ray, age 61, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 21, 2016, following an extended illness. Born January 17, 1955, in Memphis, Tennessee, Steve was a beloved husband, son, brother and uncle. Coming from a strong Irish Catholic upbringing, he was fiercely dedicated to our Lord and Savior. In recent years, Steve and his wife attended Valley Grande Baptist Church.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, James (Jim) Ray. He is survived by his wife, Lynne, of Valley Grande; and his mother, Catherine, of Memphis. Steve has two brothers, Mike (Jean) of Vero Beach, Florida, and Phil (Cheryl) of Summerville, South Carolina; and a sister Dianne Thackery of Memphis. Steve also leaves five nieces and three nephews, along with seven great-nieces and great-nephews.

Steve attended Memphis Catholic High School and Memphis State University. He was proud to have served our country in the Marine Corps. Recently, Steve rediscovered a talent for painting and enjoyed working in oils. Steve liked to spend his days maintaining his lawn, an occupation that he took great pride in doing, despite the challenges of his multiple illnesses.

Steve’s life will be celebrated with a wake in the fellowship hall of Valley Grande Baptist, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, May 27. Brother Clarke Skelton will officiate during a memorial service that will be held in the sanctuary of Valley Grande Baptist on Saturday, May 28 at 10:30 a.m.

The family would like to acknowledge the nursing staff of Vaughan Regional Medical Center for the excellent care Steve received during his most recent illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the building fund of Valley Grande Baptist Church or to the American Kidney Foundation.