Clifton Byron Ray III's Obituary
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
- 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.
What’s your fondest memory of Clifton?
What’s a lesson you learned from Clifton?
Share a story where Clifton's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Clifton you’ll never forget.
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