Chad Ray

Chad Ray was born in Anniston, Alabama on January 10, 1972. He played varsity football at Anniston High School, helping to lead the Bulldogs to be the 1989 6A State Champions. Sports came naturally to Chad excelling at everything he played; football, baseball, basketball, soccer and golf. He attended college at Jacksonville State University. Chad was married to his adoring wife, Shellie, for 29 years. He coached both of his children, Kayli and Jackson in every sport they played. Hundreds of kids were impacted by him as a coach and mentor. He loved working with his father at their business Southeastern Specialty for well over 20 years. He was extraordinarily proud of Kayli and Jackson and loved being Papa to his grandson Hudson. He always believed that his greatest accomplishment was his family. Chad loved fiercely and lived life to the fullest every day. Known for his beautiful smile, kind and generous heart. He was unapologetically genuine, honest, and loyal. He displayed unwavering strength and unending faith. Christ was the center of his life, and he faithfully served our Lord. Chad was ordained as a Deacon at Lakeview Baptist Church where he also served as a Sunday School teacher. He was an integral part in forming and building Brookside Baptist Church where he served as Deacon until his death. He helped lead the youth and even filled in as Worship leader on occasion. Chad was an avid fisherman, known for always catching the biggest fish. He made lasting memories with his son, family, and friends on frequent fishing trips. Lake Talquin in Florida was an annual trip he looked forward to. In 2019, Chad was diagnosed with Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis. That’s when he became a hero. He battled the treacherous disease with bravery, humor, and determination. He remained fiercely in love with God and committed to being a faithful and loyal husband, Dad, and friend even in the midst of his suffering. He used all his minutes and muscles on the people he loved most and continued to tell other’s about Jesus until his final breath. The impact of Chad’s life, faith, and love cannot be contained by words. He displayed the true heart of a warrior despite his unrelenting battle with ALS. Through him, he leaves behind a legacy of faith and love. Chad is survived by his loving wife, Shellie Ray; daughter Kayli Stewart (Cody); son Jackson Ray; parents Jerry and Jean Ray; brother Heath Ray; grandson Hudson Ray; father-in-law and mother-in-law Gray and Diane McCullars; sister- in-law Kathryn Miller (Phillip); niece Isabella Brown; nephew John Franklin Brown; cousins Scott Ray (Melodee); Austin Ray (Lee Evelyn); Colby Ray (Andrea); Courtney Parker (Major); Conner Ray (Caitlyn); Kirby Ray; as well as many other loving family members. A celebration of Chad’s life will be held Saturday, July 23, 2022 at 3:00pm at Golden Springs Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00pm. Services will be led by Pastor Chris Spurlin and best friend John Howell. In lieu of flowers, the Ray family is requesting donations be made to Brookside Baptist Church or the Team Gleason Foundation.

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Chad Ray

January 10, 1972 - July 20, 2022