John Phillip "Jack" Ray

John (Jack) Phillip Ray

Born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 5, 1931, to Walter J.L. and Marion (Tate) Ray. He passed away quietly at St. Anne's Mead, in Southfield, Michigan, on February 8, 2026, at the age of 95.

Jack graduated from Redford High School, in Detroit, and went on to receive a degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan, in 1952, as well as attending the University of Indiana's School of Savings & Loan. While at U of M, he joined the Kappa Sigma fraternity where he was involved in numerous committees. He continued that willingness of volunteering his entire life, always quick to assist any organization that needed a helping hand.

He married Mary Elizabeth (Pearse) Ray on April 17, 1953. They were together for 65 years until her passing in 2018. A deep abiding love for family and friends was important to them both. His other great love was Michigan football. Mary went to Michigan State, and he always told everyone that there was only one day a year that he disagreed with her! Go Blue!!

Jack spent his entire career at Standard Federal Savings and Loan (now Bank of America) working in their mortgage servicing department. He knew the business from end to end. From the mail room to executive meetings in the board room, he thoroughly enjoyed his work at the bank before retiring in 1996.

Through out his life, he served as a board member for the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, St. Anne's Mead, and Detroit #1 Kiwanis Foundation. He was also a member of the Detroit Economic Club, Mortgage Bankers Association, and the Senior Men's Club. Jack spent the last year of his life meeting new friends at St. Anne's Mead, and enjoying the company of their wonderful staff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother Thomas W. Ray. He is survived by his daughters, Carol (David) Hicks, Nancy Ray and Mary J. Ray. Nephews, Walter (Janet) Ray and Thomas (Sandy) Ray. And, nieces Kathy (Larry) LaFayette, Susan (Joe) Miles, Laurie (Steve) Hudgins, and Mara (Rich) Burke.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Kiwanis Club #1 Foundation Detroit (16650 Chandler Park Dr., Detroit, MI 48224); or, The Salvation Army (16130 Northland Dr., Southfield, MI 48075).

A "Celebration of Life" will be held in the spring of 2026.