Johnnie Ray Obituary (1932

Johnnie H. Ray departed this life and entered into eternal rest on Sunday, May 24, 2020. Johnnie was born on July 26, 1932 in Charlotte, NC to the late Albert Earl Ray and Marie Beatty. Johnnie left Charlotte, NC in the late 1950s to move to New York City to pursue his love of driving. Johnnie drove trucks and worked as a chauffeur in New York City for many years. Johnnie met his beloved late wife, Sandra C. Ray in New York City, where they lived for many years and raised a family until they relocated to Norwalk, CT. Johnnie, also lovingly known to many as "Dad", enjoyed many hobbies such as swimming and working as a life guard, fishing, boxing, taking care of his dogs, and going to the casino to play his favorite game, poker. Dad was funny and had a loving sense of humor. He loved to dance, and he enjoyed music. He was known as "twinkle toes" on the dance floor. Johnnie also had a love for fried chicken, cakes, "Krispy Cream Donuts", and ice cream. Johnnie was preceded in death by him loving wife Sandra C. Ray, sister Gladys Alexander, brothers Albert Ray Jr. and David Ray; sons Johnnie Ray Jr. and Kenny Ray; and daughter Linda Michaels. He leaves to mourn his sister Elmira House and brother Charles Ray; daughter Soraya Ray and son Gary Ray; special daughters Sharon and Jowanza; son-in-law Sam Dallas; grandchildren Gerald, Billy, Tonya, Pam, Kimberly, Tinisha, Michael Jr., Chancellor, Trenton, Phoebe, and Sul; and a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many beloved friends. The family of Johnnie H. Ray would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation for all acts of kindness during this difficult time. We would like to thank Joseph H. Brown Jr. Funeral Services in Baltimore, MD and Baker-Isaac Funeral Services in Bridgeport, CT for providing the professional care of our loving Dad. Funeral Services will be private.