Johnny McCray Obituary

Johnny Lee McCray, son of the late Henrietta and Emanuel McCray, was born on March 10, 1951, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the last living child of the McCray household. He was preceded in death by his only brother, Gene McCray; and sisters, Regina Harland, Denise Matthews and Joanne Carpenter. The Lord called him to his heavenly resting place on December 9, 2024.
Johnny was educated in the Baltimore Public School system and later obtained his contractual certification through the Job Corps. Shortly after completing the Job Corps, Johnny entered the workforce and was employed by the state as a Custodian at Towson University. Outside of work, Johnny was known as a jack of all trades. Though he received formal training through the Job Corps, he was traditionally trained by his father, Emanuel McCray. He often reminisced about his close relationship with his father, who taught him everything he knew about painting, building, and repairing household items. In addition to being a hard worker, Johnny knew how to enjoy life. He was the life of the party, entertaining family and friends of all ages. Many joked that he was the family's unofficial photographer, always arriving with a disposable camera and capturing moments. When not taking photos, he could often be found singing and dancing. His love of music was unmatched, and he cherished his collection of records, which included the Temptations, Luther Vandross, Bill Withers, and numerous jazz artists, one of his favorite genres.
Johnny leaves behind a family who will forever love and miss him. He is survived by his wife, Mary McCray, one daughter, Nichae Byrd; two granddaughters, Teaonia M. White and Tiffany White; three great-grandchildren, Tay'liah, Shyheim De'mar, and Jos'heim Uriel Paul; one beloved aunt, Mary Richburg; his cherished sister-in-law, Patricia McCray Miller of Manning, SC; brother-in law, Bishop Northern Miller; three nephews, Antonio Christian, Ronald Matthews, and Jonah McCray; one niece and caregiver, Candace McCray; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives, and friends.