Jerry Ray

Jerry Norton Ray, 73, of Beebe, went home to see his Lord and Savior on September 16, 2017. He was born on December 29, 1943, in Warren, Arkansas to the late Reverend Thomas and Marcelle Ray.

He graduated high school in Cullman, Alabama, and attended college at SAU and UALR. Jerry was a mechanical designer, specializing in HVAC and plumbing, working for engineering firms in the Little Rock area for over 45 years. Accepting the call to the Gospel ministry in 1986, Jerry served 30 years as a bivocational pastor, beginning at New Hope Baptist church in Lonoke and pastoring several churches in the Caroline Baptist Association.

Jerry met Linda at a youth rally at church in Camden when she was 15 and he was 17. He fell in love with her that day, telling the other boys that he was going to marry that girl. The foundation of their marriage was built around the church. For 52 years, their marriage was filled with happiness and hardship, love and laughter.
He was a loving selfless provider to his children and grandchildren. The greatest legacy he has left them is his gentle spirit, his love for the Word of God, his willingness to mentor others, and his "keep on keepin' on" attitude.

He was known for his deep voice, his distinctive laugh, his good jokes, and his white hair. His passions included preaching, witnessing to the lost, working with Celebrate Recovery, and sweet tea from McDonald's.

Jerry was a natural leader, holding a deep knowledge of the Word of God, and not being ashamed to share it. He lived humbly and gave his life to the service of others without hesitation, judgment, or regret. He was appreciated, respected, and loved by many.

His last sermon may not have been behind a pulpit at church, but his last sermon WAS his servant's heart and a lifetime of helping others.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Fulks Ray of Beebe, daughter Mary Elizabeth Ray-Shearer (Larry) of Conway, son David Ray (Joni) of Willow Springs, Missouri, grandchildren Brandon and Jonathan Ray of Beebe, Justin Ray of Cabot, and Holly, Chase, Evan, and Samuel Ray of Willow Springs, Missouri. Sisters, Brenda Grimes (Gary) of Camden, Sissy Burke (Mike) of Lake Village, Texas, and brother-in-law Rev. Kenneth Treadaway. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Treadaway, and granddaughter, Emily Ray.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Mission Fund or Celebrate Recovery at First Baptist Church in Beebe.

Visitation will be Tuesday night from 6:00-8:00 at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe; Funeral will be at 10:00 on Wednesday at First Baptist Church in Beebe officiated by Brother Bob Hall and C.W. Blood. Burial will follow at Antioch Cemetery. Arrangements by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home. www.SmithFamilyCares.com