Eva Jean Cray
Mother Eva Jean Cray, affectionately known for her wisdom, warmth, and unforgettable Sunday meals, transitioned peacefully from this life on June 25, at the age of 82.
She was born on September 13, 1942, in Fitzgerald, to the late Ruben Smith, Sr., and Veler Singleton Smith. Eva was the Eldest of 13 siblings, a position she carried with both grace and strength, mothering and caring for many – both within her family and throughout the community.
In addition to her parents, Eva was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Joel R. Cray, Sr., and her siblings: Ruby Lee James, David Smith, Barbara Jones, Mary Lizzie Hines, and Paul Edward Smith.
She leaves behind a strong loving legacy in her siblings: Ruben Smith Jr., Pastor Billy Jackson, Jackie Smith, Mildred Miller, Mitchel Smith (Betty), Kathy Ryals (Henry), and Johnnie Mae Jackson; her six devoted children: Joel Randolph Cray, Jr., Veler Darcil Bell, Mary Letha Drayton, Samuel Cray (Shanta), Mildred Ruth Richburg (Anthony), Moses Cray, and special niece Marsha Atwell; seven cherished grandchildren: Lawanda Kay Garnes (Thomas), Dorthy “Peaches” Paulk, Trenton L. Drayton, Joshua L. Bell (Nydajah), Sierra J. Cray, Prince M. Drayton, and Anthony “LA” Richburg, Jr.; six great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.
Eva Cray was widely known for her delicious Sunday and holiday dinners – with her legendary jelly cake always in demand. Her sharp wit, unmatched storytelling, and unwavering sense of fairness left a deep impact on all who knew her. She made endless sacrifices to ensure others were taken care of, often extending her heart and home to those in need.
She was a devoted member of New Life Ministries, where she served faithfully on the Mother’s Board, a spiritual matriarch whose love for God and people was lived out every day.
Mother Eva Jean Cray’s legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched.
A Celebration of life service was held for Eva Jean Gray on Saturday, July 5, at New Life Ministries. Minister Melissa Howard Presided over the service and Bishop Alfred Butler was the Eulogist for the service. Musical selections were performed by Trenton L. Drayton and New Life Ministries Musicians. Pallbearers for the service were Grandsons and Nephews of Eva Jean Cray. A repast was held at New Life Ministries and a interment was held at Rachel’s Baptist Church.
Professional services were entrusted to Baxley Funeral Home.
