Rev Willie E Ray

Reverend William Willie Edward Ray a devoted servant of God and tireless advocate for the youth of Baltimore, entered the Heavenly Kingdom on Resurrection Sunday, April 20, 2025. Born on February 4,1949. in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the beloved son of the late George and Corren (Isaac) Ray and the youngest brother of seven siblings: Wyman Issac, Francis Fiersus Neverdon George Bubbles' Ray Jr. Betty Jean Young, Issac Peekie ' Ray and Evelyn Netty Powell all of whom preceded him in death. Rev. Ray's journey was one of faith, scholarship, and services. A graduate of Frederick Douglass High School, he pursued higher education at Antioch University before completing theological training at the Youngest Life Institute Seminary in New York. His commitment to urban ministry led him to purse further study at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts, where he deepened his of theology and social engagement in their Master of Urban Theology program. As a young man, Rev Ray was very much a part of the hip entertainment culture of the time he maintained a full social life and enjoyed having a good time. The assassination of Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4,1968 ignited. Rev Ray's callling to the ministry. Caught up in the excitement of the circumstances that followed, Rev Ray beleived that God was getting his attention telling him to set an example for inner-city youth. He was licensed by Bishop L. K. Ceasar of First Mt. Olive Freewill Baptist Church in 1972 and interned in New Shiloh Baptist Church under Rev Dr. Harold A Carter, Sr in 1973. Rev Ray was ordained by Rev. Dr Vernon Dobson of Union Baptist and Bishop Winfield Showell of First Apostolic Faith Church on March 25, 1977. He served as an Association to Rev Dr. Arnold W. Howard at the Enon Baptist Church in 1995 Rev Ray was the founder and Pastor of New Promise land Baptist Church in 2008 which was later rededicated in 2015. On January 1, 2020, Rev Ray joined the New Shiloh Baptist Church now pastored by Rev Dr. Harold A. Carter Jr. For over five decades.Rev.Ray was a beacon of hope ,tirelessly advocating for troubled youth and working toward social justice.In 1969 he secured $250,000 for the restoration and renovation of the Pine Street Police Station and establishing Redeemers Palace, a self -help program for those seeking to reclaim their lives from substance abuse and the criminal underworld. His passion led to the creation of organizations like Save Another Youth,Inc.and Stop The Violence Coalition Movement,which provided mentorship,safe havens and opportunities for young people.His work extended beyond the pulpit through initiatives such as candlelight vigils,back-to -school block parties ,and community outreach programs designed to uplift the citys most vulnerable.Reverend Ray ran for a seat on the Baltimore City Council in 1987. Rev. Rays impact was far-reaching,touching lives across Baltimore through his collaborations with faith leaders,policymakers, and social activists.His enduring legacy is one of unwavering commitment to his community,a steadfast devotion to God,and a deep love for humanity. Rev.William Edward Ray leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces ,nephews,and cousins as well as a vast community of colleagues ,friends,and people he helped and influenced throughout his years of service.

Tributes

Rev Willie E Ray

February 4, 1948 - April 20, 2025