I met Rodney at Jimmy's 430pm Camp Gladiator class, yes he had a 430pm class, at Metzger 2 years ago. I was very new to CG and was struggling but Rodney never made me feel inadequate. He was so encouraging & wore a bandana like me! I admired his strength, gentleness with new Campers & his utmost respect for our trainer and use newbies as we tried to keep up! You will truly be missed my friend. Prayers for your family and friends during this difficult time. 

Master Sergeant Ray, I as first knew him, was remarkable.  I was a young enlisted member, and single parent father of two young boys in a foreign country when I was assigned to work in one of his workcenters.  He was my bosses boss!  In those days, senior noncommissioned officers were often unapproachable.....not MSgt Ray.  He was very approachable, compassionate and caring of everyone.  And the love he emanated was further magnified from his incredible family.  In my short 6 years in the military at that point, he was the first supervisor I had had that invested his time and energy in others before himself.  Assignments took us different paths and Years later, I was blessed again by the welcome embrace of the Ray family when I visited their home in San Antonio....and the warmth was still as remarkable.  In the total 29+ years I spent in the military, Rodney Ray stands out to me, not only as the first, but the best supervisor I ever had....a shining example of servant leadership, and devoted to love of everyone.  I miss you, and I will continue to try to emulate you in every way, and live by your example!  I know you're serving an even higher purpose now as an Angel of God; and you are forever in my heart, my servant brother, and in the hearts of so many graced by your friendship.  I know you're watching over all of us, until we once again reunite to your warm embrace!  My sincerest love to you and your family!  Your teammate, Mark Hammack  

I met Rodney at CG camp and he welcomed me as if he had known me for years.  When I wanted to give up he would stay behind with me and say "you got this".  Thank you Rodney for your motivation, push and that big smile that greeted me at camp upon arrival, you will be missed.  To your family, God makes no mistakes and I pray that you look to him for comfort, peace and strength and know that Rodney loved each and everyone of you dearly.  Thank you for sharing him with us. God Bless!

Thank you for your friendship, laughter and love. It’s been a pleasure having you not only as a friend but also a brother.   Rodney was the person who always had a smile on his face. When you saw him, Rodney made your day brighter.

Although this is a sad time, it’s also a joyous time for those who met Rodney.  I met him in CG,  I was nervous and thought I couldn’t do the sets.  However Rodney being the kind hearted man he was, said NO YOU GOT THIS! Rodney you will be missed but never forgotten.  To your wife and children, keep your head up and know that he loved you all so much.  I will keep you in my prayers.  Stay strong and look to God for strength and guidance.  

Rodney was a fellow camper with Camp Gladiator and one of the first ones I’d met. Matter of fact, at one time it was only four of us at camp with Trainer Karl. Later, Jimmy took over and the saga continued. Rodney didn’t know a stranger. Always friendly, inviting, and motivational- he pushed through every workout like he was the trainer. Lol - The man was a beast. Then, on top of that, he held a Christmas gathering at his home every year, leading caroling and games. Nanita, his wife cooked mega amounts of food and they just made you feel so welcomed. I will say farewell for now Rodney. Peace, strength, and comfort are wished for the family. You are not alone. Prayers surround you! My sincerest condolences for your loss on this Earth but think of the glory that awaits him in Heaven. Sweet rest Rodney. 

OBITUARY

MSgt. Rodney Lewis Ray U.S. Air Force, Retired

January 9, 1958 – July 6, 2018

Colonial Funeral Home

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