David Wayne McRay

David passed from this earthly plane on Friday, November 29, 2024. His family and friends are heartbroken and devastated at his sudden passing but are thankful for the 66 years we have had him among us. He was known for his kindness and the joy he brought to those around him. He had a quiet way of making others feel seen and valued, always offering support when needed. David was the kind of person you could count on for a thoughtful conversation or a helping hand.

David's intelligence was a defining quality; he was often the smartest person in the room. He had a sharp mind and a wealth of knowledge. His love for learning was evident, and he rarely missed a question on Jeopardy. But it was his wisdom, not just his knowledge, that truly set him apart. He had a deep understanding of life and people, as he had lived worldwide, making him a trusted friend and a reliable presence in the lives of those who knew him.

From his humble beginnings in Rome, GA, to faraway places all over the world, David brought his friendliness, kindness, intelligence, and passion for excellence with him.

David was born in Rome, GA, on January 30, 1958, but he lived in numerous cities and countries, as his father worked in international sales for Lockheed. Some of these places include Denver, Colorado; Rapid City, South Dakota; Little Rock, Arkansas; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Taichung; Taiwan; Oxen Hill, Maryland; Tehran, Iran; O'Fallon, Illinois; and then back to Rome, Georgia.

David attended schools all around the world, but graduated from O'Fallon Township High School in O'Fallon, Illinois, where he starred in football, basketball, baseball, and wrestling.

After High School, David went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in History from Shorter University. He then went on to earn his Master of Education and Educational Specialist Degree from the University of West Georgia.

David taught and coached both high school and middle school sports in Chattooga County, including football, wrestling, and track and field. For the past 24 years, David has co-owned and worked at Infinity Children's Services in Rome, Georgia. During Dave's career, he touched numerous lives whilst teaching, coaching, and working at Infinity Children's Services. He left a legacy of kindness, empathy, and positive influence. His impact was felt far and wide, and he will be remembered for the difference he made in the lives of those who had the privilege to know him.

David was an avid golfer, fitness and kettlebell enthusiast, lifelong Falcon's fanatic, and the world's best cheerleading dad. He was also recently a proud Alabama fan after his daughter attended the University of Alabama. Dave had a distinctive and great sense of style, always sporting unique patterns and colors that set him apart from the crowd. Above all, David was a dedicated father, husband, son, brother, and friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Above all, David's love for his family and friends is what really kept him going throughout the years. He loved telling stories about places most people only dream of visiting, many stories sounding like something straight out of a movie. With so much knowledge and life experience, David was among the most interesting people you'd ever met.

Much like his father, Dave always said and believed, "You learn everything you need to know about a person by playing a round of golf with them. If you want to play another round with them, they're okay in my book." Everyone who had ever played a round of golf with Dave wanted to play another.

David's favorite things in life, besides spending time with his wife and daughter, were traveling to the Caribbean, listening to Jimmy Buffett, and trying new craft beers.

David is preceded in death by his parents, Bobbie Wayne and Margie Adams McRay, his Parents-in-law, James and Betty McAlister, and his brother-in-law, Alan McAlister. He is also preceded in death by his beloved dog, Charli.

David is survived by his wife of 34 years, Beth McAlister McRay, of Rome; his daughter, Caroline McRay, of Rome; his siblings, Laura Underhill (Ricky) of Rome, Nancy McRay of Rome, and Phillip McRay of Calhoun; his siblings-in-law, Kathy Hester (Glen) of Hokes Bluff, Ricky McAlister (Susan) of Hokes Bluff, and Tonyia McAlister of Hokes Bluff; his dog, Lucy; and a host of nieces and nephews.

David's kindness, wisdom, and sense of adventure will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable stories. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will continue to inspire and bring comfort to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 2:00pm (EST), in the Chapel at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel, with Rev. Mac McCurry officiating, and his daughter, Caroline McRay, delivering the eulogy. In accordance with his wishes Mr. McRay will be cremated following the services, and a private inurnment will take place at a later date.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 5:00pm until 7:00pm (EST), and again on Friday from 1:00pm (EST)until the hour of service, at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel.

Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Mr. David Wayne McRay.