Clifton Byron Ray III Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Clifton Byron Ray, III affectionately known as “Dickie” was born on September 12, 1943 in Saint Louis, Missouri to the union of Leola Clark Ray and Clifton Byron Ray II. He was raised by his Maternal Grandparents Harvey and Ella Clark, who raised him in the fear and admonition of God, and he received Christ at an early age and later in life he recommitted himself to Christ. (All of whom preceded him in death). Dickie receive his educated in the St. Louis Public School System, graduating from Cote Brilliante Grade school – January 1958, and Beaumont High school - January 1962. He matriculated through the Missouri University System at Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville, Missouri on an athletic scholarship, earning both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education in 1969 and a Master of Art in Secondary Administration in 1976. Dickie was an excellent athlete and sportsman excelling in many areas of sports. He played Semi-Pro Football and later inducted into the Northeast Missouri State University Hall of Fame in 1994, which is now known as Truman State University. He was a member of the 100 Best Player of NEMO during his tenure. Dickie worked in the Saint Louis Public School System in 1969 as a Physical Education teacher and health teacher throughout his tenure. He coached a variety of sports; football, basketball, and tennis and later becoming Assistant Principal before his retirement in 2007. Serving 38 years. Dickie was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Epsilon Eta Chapter 1969. He was a member of Shriners Hall Log Westage #95. He was an avid Golf player, loved playing Chess, Softball, Poker, Bid Whiz and other card games. He had an undeniable gift and passion to mentor and guide others to achieve their goals for success and many were impacted by his life. Dickie leaves to cherish his memory: a loving, devoted and faithful wife ~ Dr. Brenda J Ray of forty-four years; a blended family of seven Children ~ Linda, Charlotte (Todd), Chawn, John, Chaunte’ (Bernard), Byron (Macgandra) and Derwin (Renee); twenty-four Grandchildren, forty Great Grandchildren, two Great-Great Grandchildren, two Sisters-in-Law, two Brothers-in-law; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends who were all special to him.

Tributes

Clifton Byron Ray III

September 12, 1943 - July 13, 2022