Reverend Dr. Trinette Vernell McCray
Reverend Dr. Trinette Vernell McCray
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Rev. Dr. McCray earned her B.A. from UW-Oshkosh and a Master's in Religious Education from the Morehouse School of Religion, where she was ordained in 1981. She later received a Doctor of Ministry from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary and an honorary Doctor of Divinity in 2021. Influenced by Black liberation and womanist theology, she was a pioneer in both church and academic spaces.
She made history as the first clergywoman President of American Baptist Churches USA (2000-2001) and served in numerous national and local leadership roles. Her ministry extended to education, social justice, and public theology through her work at Cardinal Stritch University and the Urban Center-Milwaukee. An author, vocalist, and spiritual leader, she wrote *Vital Spirit, Vital Service*.
A cancer survivor of 11 years, she used her journey to minister to others, becoming a Certified Cancer Care Ministry Trainer. She was also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and a cherished aunt, godmother, and mentor to many.
She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Ruth McCray, and her brother, Arnold. She is survived by her sister Linda A. Brantley, nieces, nephews, extended family, and a devoted circle of friends and mentees.
Her legacy is summed up in her words:
*"Ministry is life and ministry is service."*
We give thanks for the remarkable life of Rev. Dr. Trinette V. McCray.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Craig Thompson
October 9, 2025
I have always loved you.
Hazel Davis
June 18, 2025
My sincere condolences to the McCray family. Dr. Rev. Trinette McCray was an inspiring woman of God, who will be missed for many reasons. Heavenly Blessings for a powerful woman of God.
Tondolayo Duncan
June 18, 2025
Dr. Trinette McCray was/is a powerful woman of God. She prepared her heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach what she learned to others for the building up of the kingdom of God. (Ezra 7:10) She was a diligent worker and a peacemaker. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." (Matthew 5:9). Rest well, Trinette.
Rose And Eardis Carr
June 14, 2025
We will miss you mt friend. Rest well in the hands of our Lord.
Rose
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Dinah Gant
June 13, 2025
Sincere condolences to the Family and the many who experienced her loving Grace and Mercy.
Mary J. Jackson
June 12, 2025
I was saddened and shocked to hear of her demise. We met at The Green Lake American Baptist Women's Ministries Conference many years ago. She held a very special pace i my heart. She was a powerful speaker and so very genuine.
Rev. Marla Coulter-McDonald
June 12, 2025
Rev. Dr. Trinette McCray was .y Seminary Classmate at ITC back in the early 1980's. I have always remembered her as a Warm, Caring, Genuine and Authentic Woman of God and Servant Leader. Deeply Called and Dedicated to Serving others, it was Joy to call her Sister and friend. She was a wonderful, Deeply Gifted Woman of God and Lived her life to the Fullest. Well Done my dear Sister, Now take your Rest. Blessings and Comfort and Strength to the family and Loved ones.
Tammy Porter
June 12, 2025
I was saddened to hear about the loss of Rev. McCray. Trinette was an asset to our church community. Her willingness to share her wisdom and knowledge with the women at our spiritual retreat will never be forgotten. She will be missed!
Naomi Miller
June 11, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Rev Trinette V McCray. She was a my Sunday school teacher and a true friend. I will miss her. Condolences to her family and friends
Francine Smith
June 10, 2025
My Condolences and Prayers,
Francine Smith
Sally Olsen Weyer
June 10, 2025
Rev. Trinette McCray was the speaker for a biennial of the ABC of the Dakotas. We spent time informally when she stayed over an evening at my house. She encouraged me on my path of ministry and I offered her a time of respite during her hectic schedule at the time. She is now resting well. My condolences to her family. She will be missed here in earth.
Rev. Randolph T. Miller
June 7, 2025
I can still hear your distinctive voice. In song and proclamation it is still strong, articulate, and resonate. Even as you enter the deathless presence of the One who walks with you, the echos of your life of faith and justice remain. Well Done, Trinette! Thank you for your courage and incarnational leadership.
Justine Beavers-Hutchins
June 6, 2025
My sincere condolences to family. Thank you Rev. Dr. Trinette V. McCray for your smile and friendship at Riverside High School. Well Done my friend!
Tyrone P Dumas
June 6, 2025
Rest with God my friend who always had that radiant and confident smile with a spirit of peace, love and joy!
Dr. Stephen E Hasper
June 6, 2025
I was deeply saddened to learn of the transition of Trinette. I first met her while serving on the General Board of ABCUSA before she became president than served with her on the Executive Committee during her tenure as President. Our paths had crossed a few times since then, far to few. I had no idea that she had multiple myeloma and am deeply grieved we did not share our cancer journeys together. I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2014, likely within months of her diagnosis. I recall her wonderful smile, her frequent laughter and always sharp mind. I am blest to have known her.
Clarice Smith
June 6, 2025
My deepest condolences to Dr. Rev. Trinette McCray´s family!! She always had a smile for all who surrounded her!! She was beautiful woman inside and out! Rest in Heaven My Sister in Love !!
Joseph Jackson, Jr
June 6, 2025
Prayers for and with family, friends, associates, colleagues, Riverside Class of 1971 classmates.
Trinette's brilliance, intelligence, wisdom and athleticism contributed to her well-rounded personality and character. Her contribution to religion, spirituality, faith, justice, and doctrine are beyond measure.
Not only will she be missed, she is missed already. Her spirit will remain among us as we lived out her legacy.
Eternal Blessings and Precious Memories,
Rev. Joseph Jackson, Jr.
Bishop Justin & Pastor Renee´ Cannon
June 5, 2025
What a precious jewel in Gods Kingdom! May God send comfort and strength to her Family and church Family! Our deepest condolences!
Dr. Teresa Leary Handy
June 5, 2025
The Leary family expresses their sincerest condolences. May her soul rest in peace.
Rev. Kathryn Choy-Wong
June 5, 2025
Trinette was such a special person. She was a friend and a sister in ministry. Her spirit of optimism was infectious. When there were so few women in ministry she was a pioneer and encouraged many of us who were called to serve God.
Nancye Brazil
June 5, 2025
My sincere condolences and sympathy to the McCray family. Trinette´s legacy as a sweet, warm, loving and sincere woman of God will never leave my heart. During high school and college, Trinette´s smile was always on display! I won´t forget my Soror.
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