James Ray Jr. Memorial (Reshell Ray beneficiary)
On July 14, 2021 our family suffered a tremendous loss . James Ray Jr., a beloved husband, father, son, brother, papa and friend unexpectedly passed away. He deeply loved and adored his wife Reshell of 33 years, his 5 wonderful children and 10 energetic grandchildren. He will be remembered for his contagious smile and his ability to always keep the conversation going.
This memorial fund has been created to help with James' medical expenses. Donations can be made via this GoFundMe page, $missraydiant on CashApp, @Maxine-Dancer on Venmo, or on Paypal. You can also go to his Caringbridge page for more ways to help.
James loved music, singing, reading, and his church family. But perhaps what he'll be most remembered for was his story telling. He painted the picture and set the stage to have you laugh and cry in the same moment. His passion and animated disposition made even strangers feel like old friends. He never missed an opportunity to share a meal or a prayer with anyone in need. Even as his health limited his physical mobility, his generosity continued. He would say, “You can't out-bless me.” This could be seen in his desire to be a pastor. While that dream was not actualized by certification, in his latter years he committed himself to caring for his family with a pastor's heart.
On June 2, 2021 James tested positive for COVID-19 after learning he had been exposed. On the evening of July 8th James was brought by car to Bryan West Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska where his oxygen levels were at measured at only 68%. The next day (Friday, July 9th) he was put on a bipap machine with the hopes that it would be enough to help turn his levels around but by Saturday evening (July 10th) he was placed on a ventilator.
By Sunday, July 11th, James was heavily sedated to help prevent body movements that would result in his levels dropping. He fought valiantly on Monday and Tuesday even after a tube had to be inserted in his lung to help him breathe. The family was incredibly hopeful as they prayed for James' levels to turn around. Our hearts were quickly broken the next day (Wednesday, July 14th at 6:00 PM) when those levels plummeted and he transitioned into the arms of God.
