Thomas N. Ray

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your needs known to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:6-7

Thomas Nathaniel Ray, eldest child of the late Alvin Dorris Ray and the late Corrine Florence Law Ray, was born in Hartsville/Trousdale County, Tennessee. The family later migrated to Nashville where Thomas received his education in the Nashville Public School system. Thomas, born in 1934, lived for over nine decades filled with kindness, generosity, and faith. His vibrant spirit and commitment to his beliefs impacted many lives, creating a legacy.Thomas accepted Christ at an early age and began his Christian journey at Cleveland Street Baptist Church. Eventually he united with the membership of St. Luke CME where he worshipped for many years, singing as a faithful member of the choir. Ultimately, he joined his beautiful wife Vivian at Mount Nebo Baptist Church under the pastorate of the Reverend Dr. Theodore H. Bryson, Sr. It is there that he would complete his earthly Christian journey.Thomas graduated from Pearl High School in January 1954 and enlisted as a Marine Corps Police Officer. After an honorable discharge in 1957, he attended Tennessee A & I State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, May 1962. With the benefit of his educational foundation and his love for people, Thomas began working as a counselor at the Spencer Youth Center, a school for troubled boys with behavioral struggles. Thomas was not only a mentor and friend but also a source of inspiration to all who crossed his path. Additionally, on February 19, 2000, Thomas was awarded the Distinguished Service Award in appreciation and gratitude for his meritorious service to the United States, the Marine Corps, and the Marine Corps League.For fifty-four wonderful years Thomas was married to the love of his life, Vivian Leona Eaton Ray who preceded him in death. Throughout his life, Thomas was a very devoted family man, a pillar of his community, and a guiding light to many. His wisdom, compassion, and integrity were evident in everything he did, from his professional endeavors to his personal relationships.Thomas devoted much of his time and effort to his family. One of his favorite activities was the gathering of family members for food, fun, and games! To encourage family attendance, he and his cousin James "Windy" Smith organized the first official reunion, attended by relatives from many different states. This family gathering has been ongoing for over forty-five years and is known as the “SRT (Stewart, Ray, Turner) Family Reunion.”Thomas’ commitment to community service and steadfast support for individuals in need was demonstrated through his active involvement in various service organizations. He was past president of AARP, Meharry Chapter 2534. The Imperial Council of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of North and South America inducted Thomas in Hella Temple No.105 at Nashville, Tennessee, May 21,1977. 

 He championed numerous other charitable causes and always extended a helping hand embodying the true essence of altruism.Thomas' legacy is celebrated by his loved ones and the numerous individuals whose lives he influenced. As we celebrate his life we remember his remarkable journey and the values he held dear. His memory serves as a reminder to live with purpose, embrace kindness, and maintain a steadfast faith.Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: a loving sister, Lois Jean Ray Mitchell; devoted niece, April McClain, who provided him with unwavering care and support during the last several years of his life; sister-in-law, Theresa London who shared in his care-giving; brother-in-law, Arthur Leon Eaton, Jr.; nieces: Cathy (Norman) Johnson, Maria Wallace; nephews: Arthur Leon Eaton, III, Sidney Lively, Logan B. Mitchell; great-nieces: Abriah Burks, Terriel Burks; great-nephew: Justin (Ciara) Burks; great-great nephew, Jayden Burks; cousins: Marquentas (Leon, Jr.) Deaderick, Ronjour Jacobs, Jeffery Law, Michelle (Stanley) Manning, Barbara (Wendell) Middlebrooks, Deborah Smith Owens, Ann Ray, William (Jazie) Ray, Jr., Ronald (Stembile) Stewart, Bernard (Vivian) Temple, Edwina Temple, Denise (James) Traylor, the Mount Nebo Church Family and a host of other loving relatives and friends. We also want to express a special thank you to Jackie Claybrooks for her daily in-home care of Thomas during his illness.

Please keep the Ray family in your thoughts and prayers.