Samuel Gerald Ray

Samuel Gerald Ray, 64, of Madison, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on November 5, 1960, in Louisville, Mississippi, Gerald was the son of Jerome and Charlotte Ray. From an early age, he carried with him a deep love for family, faith, and the game of baseball. He married Martha Courtney Ray, on June 11, 1988. Together they built a life filled with laughter, unwavering love, and the joy of raising their
three children: Orrin, Jordan, and Grayson.

Gerald’s love for baseball began at an early age, and it quickly became a defining part of his life. Whether he was on the mound, in the dugout, or practicing in the backyard, the game brought him joy, purpose, and lifelong friendships. He wasn’t just a talented ballplayer—he was a devoted teammate who played with heart and humility. The bonds he formed with friends and even opponents during those years remained with him throughout his life, shaping the man he became both on and off the field.

That same passion for the game and commitment to others naturally led Gerald into a lifelong career in coaching and education. He spent over 30 years as a devoted coach
and educator—more than a career, it was his calling. He impacted generations of students and athletes, not just by teaching them how to play the game, but by showing them how to live with integrity, grit, and heart. His players respected him, his peers admired him, and his community cherished him.

Family meant everything to Gerald. He was a proud father and an even prouder "Grumps" to his grandchildren—Gray, Henderson, Harper, and Elsie—who brought light and laughter into his life. His legacy will live on through their smiles and stories.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife, Martha Ray; his children, Orrin Ray (Victoria), Jordan Reed (Austin), and Grayson Ray; his grandchildren, Gray and Henderson Reed, and Harper and Elsie Ray; his mother, Charlotte Ray; and his brothers, Jay Ray and Jim Ray.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerome Ray.

Gerald’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Breeland Funeral Home in Canton, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with a service to follow
at 12:00 p.m. in the Chaple Room at Breeland Funeral Home.

Gerald will be remembered for his steady presence, warm heart, and the countless lives he touched through his love, mentorship, and friendship. Though he may no longer walk beside us, his spirit lives on in the lives he shaped and the family he adored.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Pallera at West Clinic in Memphis, TN, and Dr. McKean at SCRI in Nashville, TN, for their exceptional care and compassion throughout Gerald’s journey. We are also incredibly thankful to the doctors and staff of the ER and ICU at Baptist Hospital in Jackson along with Baptist Hospice for their tireless dedication and kindness during our most difficult days.

Most of all, we want to thank our family, friends, and coworkers who have stood beside us, lifted us up, and surrounded us with love and support. Your prayers, encouragement, and unwavering presence have carried us through this season of sorrow. We have been truly blessed by the outpouring of prayers, and we will never forget the strength you gave us when we needed it most.

“Remember, there’s heroes and there’s legends. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. Follow your heart kid, and you’ll never go wrong.”

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