Earlie C. McCrary

THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF

Earlie C. McCrary

EARLY SEA RAY, AKA “EARLIE C.” was born June 14, 1929, in Ballard County, KY to the union of the late Henry Ray and Elizabeth (Collins) Ray. To this union 16 children were born.

Earlie C. received her formal education at McCracken County public schools, graduating from Lincoln high School.

Earlie’s family was grounded in religion, all of whom went to church every Sunday together. As Earlie C. Grew, she established a strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ, joining Hills Chapel AME church in Lone Oak, Kentucky.

After relocating to Milwaukee, WI, she joined Greater Galilee Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. E.B. Phillips. In June 1979, Earlie changed her membership to New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Dr. F.L. Crouther. She was a faithful, loyal, and devoted member of the church as a Deaconess, choir member, church school teacher, and missionary circle member.

Earlie C. worked at Day Care Services for Children for a brief time. She also served as a Help Companion for the Elderly, and worked with her sister Mary at St. Camillus Nursing Home.

As we think about Earlie and the legacy that she left, we can only be proud of what she stood for spiritually, family oriented, and servant leadership. Earlie C. had a jovial spirit and festive personality. She could light up a room with a comment or laughter. Her facial expressions were limitless. Her dress was always stylish and impeccable, especially those “church hats” that never seem to come off even when she in the spirit. Although the Book of Life has closed for Earlie C., those left to uphold her legacy will include her influence in their lives by the stories they share as well as the service they render. The wisdom that was shared over the years, the love that was extended, the sacrifices made, and the dedication to devotion have all come to this moment of CELEBRATION! Whatever name you called her: “Earlie C, Ma-Dear, Mother-dear, Granny, Auntie, or Momma…” she answered to them all and reminded you that life is a journey, be prepared, but always remember “The prayers of the RIGHTEOUS, availeth much.”

On September 11, 2023, Earlier C. closed her eyes in victory and answered the Lord’s call. The call that she cherished all of her Christian life, shouted about, and claimed victory for. Finally, Earlie C. is at peace with the Lord. She was preceded in death by her parents and 11 siblings.

She leaves to treasure her legacy: daughters; Mary L. Gay (Donald), Glendale Ray, Joyce E. McCrary all from Milwaukee, WI, Barbara J. McCrary Chandler and Blenda J. McCrary from Knoxville, TN, sons: Dorris L. Ray from Milwaukee, WI, and Edward B. McCrary from Tampa Bay, FL; grandchildren: Leon (Donnyea) Groce, Tia Gay, Justin Gay, Terry (Jodi) Lockett, Andre Ray, Latrese (Steve) Turner, LaShonda Lever, Isaiah McCrary, Ariel McCrary, Mariah McCrary, Ernest Reagen and Kevin McCrary, 13 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves to cherish her memory, a special God daughter Kim Whitehead Jackson, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friend, Brigette Bendzka.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM, at New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, 2315 North 38th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Interment at Graceland Cemetery.

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