ALBERT JAMES McCRAY JR.

Albert James McCray Jr., affectionately known as "June," was born on November 17, 1953, in Greenville, Mississippi, to Viola McCray and Albert James McCray Sr. He was the eldest of eleven children, a role he carried with strength, responsibility, and quiet leadership throughout his life. At an early age, Albert professed his love for Christ and developed a personal relationship with God that remained with him throughout his life.

Albert was raised in Greenville, Mississippi, until 1968, when he moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, with his beloved aunt, Naomi Smith. He attended Harry E. Woods High School, where he was an active member of the marching band, playing the trombone with passion and precision. His musical gift led him to win a state competition in a quartet horn section, and he was widely known as one of the best at reading music. He graduated in 1971.

Albert began building his legacy of family early in life when he welcomed his first daughter, Valerie, in 1974. A few years later, in 1980, he married the love of his life, Toni Elaine McCray. From this union, four children were born: LaTia, Kevin, Christopher, and Albert. Together, they built a family rooted in love, strength, and commitment. Albert was a devoted husband and a loving, present father who took great pride in his children.

Albert was known as a hands-on father who was deeply involved in the lives of his children. He was present, intentional, and protective, ensuring that his sons and daughters were not only cared for but guided. Whether attending games, offering direction, teaching life lessons, or simply being there, Albert made his presence known. He led his household with strength, discipline, and love, setting a foundation that would shape his children for years to come. He poured into his sons, instilling values of respect, responsibility, and manhood, while nurturing and protecting his daughters with quiet strength and unwavering care.

Albert had a deep love for music and continued to share his gift by playing the trombone in a band known as The Psychedelics. He also had a passion for sports, particularly baseball, where he played in several leagues throughout his years. His love for football led him to serve as a dedicated coach for the Municipal Gardens Dad's Club, mentoring not only his sons but young boys from across Indianapolis, leaving a lasting impact through leadership, discipline, and care.

Albert was a dedicated and hardworking professional who served for 17 years at Central State Hospital as a Behavioral Health Specialist. He was known for his compassion and commitment to caring for others, always showing up with a servant's heart.

After the passing of his beloved wife, Toni Elaine McCray, in 1994, Albert took on the role of a single father and provider, continuing to lead his family with strength, resilience, and unwavering love.

Albert was also a proud member of the Kingsmen Club, where he shared lifelong bonds with friends who affectionately knew him as "Rock." He enjoyed cooking-especially barbecue-and found joy in bringing people together through food, laughter, and fellowship.

In 1998, Albert suffered a massive stroke that left him unable to walk or speak. Yet, in true Albert fashion, he refused to give up. For 27 years, he fought with resilience and unwavering determination. Even while residing in skilled nursing facilities, he remained a powerful presence in his children's and grandchildren's lives. His love spoke louder than words ever could.

He was a bright light to his grandchildren, always eager to hear about their accomplishments. He found joy in life's simple pleasures-weekly haircuts from his sons, snacks, and cherished visits from his children. He was deeply loved by caregivers and staff, who often competed for the honor of caring for him.

Albert departed this life on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 6:08 p.m. in Avon, Indiana. While his presence will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, whole again, and resting in the arms of the Lord. Albert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Toni Elaine McCray; his father, Albert James McCray Sr.; his aunt, Naomi Smith; his brothers, Lewis McCray, Roosevelt McCray, and Tim McCray; and his sister, Cora Green.

He leaves to cherish his memory his five children: Valerie Miller (Bill), LaTia Pollard (James), Kevin McCray (Jayia), Christopher McCray, Sr. (Shonta'), and Albert McCray (Nicole); eleven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; mother, Viola McCray; siblings, Johanna McCray, George McCray (Bernice), Kennedy McCray, Jacqueline White, Patricia Bell, and Vann McCray; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Albert James McCray Jr. will be remembered for his strength, resilience, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family. Even in silence, he spoke volumes-demonstrating perseverance, protection, and leadership as a father and a man. His legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.