Reverend Charles Calvin Ray, Lifelong Servant Leader, Passes Away at 89

The beloved Mississippi minister dedicated his life to social work, community service, and faith-based ministries.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Reverend Charles Calvin Ray, a longtime Presbyterian lay pastor and social worker in Mississippi, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on March 28, 2026. Throughout his life, Rev. Ray was deeply committed to serving others through his work with the Mississippi Children's Home Society, the Division of Youth Services in Georgia, and the Southwest Mississippi Regional Mental Health Complex. He also founded several community organizations, including Camp Sunshine for children with disabilities and Horizon Hospice, the first hospice program in the McComb area. Rev. Ray's legacy of compassion and faith will continue through the many lives he touched.

Why it matters

Rev. Ray's passing marks the end of an era for the McComb community, where he was a beloved and respected figure for decades. His lifelong dedication to social services, community development, and faith-based ministry left an indelible mark on the region, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps of humble service. His story highlights the enduring impact that one person can have through a lifetime of selfless work.

The details

Rev. Ray began his career as a child welfare worker with the Mississippi Welfare Department before earning a master's degree in social work from the University of Tennessee. He went on to hold leadership roles at the Mississippi Children's Home Society, the Division of Youth Services in Georgia, and the Southwest Mississippi Regional Mental Health Complex, helping to place adopted children, develop youth services programs, and establish the first hospice in the McComb area. Throughout his professional life, Rev. Ray also founded several community organizations, including Camp Sunshine for children with disabilities and the McComb Interdenominational Care Association.

  • Rev. Ray passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of March 28, 2026.
  • A celebration of life will be held at J.J. White Memorial Presbyterian Church in McComb, Mississippi, on Saturday, April 18, at 1 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11 a.m.

The players

Reverend Charles Calvin Ray

A beloved Presbyterian lay pastor and lifelong social worker who dedicated his career and community service to helping children, families, and the underserved in Mississippi.

Carolyn Ray

Rev. Ray's wife of 62 years, who was by his side when he passed away.

J.J. White Memorial Presbyterian Church

The church where Rev. Ray served faithfully alongside his wife for many years, and where his celebration of life will be held.

Camp Sunshine

A community organization that Rev. Ray helped found to serve children with mental and physical disabilities.

Horizon Hospice

The first hospice program in the McComb area, which Rev. Ray helped establish.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The celebration of life for Rev. Charles Calvin Ray will be held on April 18, 2026, providing the community an opportunity to honor his legacy and remember his lifelong commitment to service.

The takeaway

Rev. Ray's story serves as an inspiring example of how one person can make a profound difference in their community through a lifetime of selfless work. His unwavering dedication to social services, community development, and faith-based ministry left an indelible mark on the McComb region, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps of humble service.