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Joel McCray Obituary
On Sunday morning, April 20, 2008, in his West Sacramento home he entered into rest & went home to be with his father, Lyle and mother, Josephine after a courageous battle with cancer. Beloved husband of 47 years to Diane McCray. Loving father of Heidi Jo (Eddie) Manrique, Shawn (Jeanine) McCray & Joel (Patricia) McCray, Jr. Devoted grandfather of Joelle, Elizabeth, Jordan, Krista, Sarah, Rita, Viviana & Lupe & great-grandfather of Alizay and Naomi. Dear stepson of Sally McCray. Also survived by numerous siblings, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins & friends. Joel started JF McCray Plastering, Inc. in 1963. He and Diane nurtured their business and saw it grow into one of the leading companies in Northern & Central California. He played a major role in the training and mentoring of the participants in the Plastering Apprenticeship Program. He was President of the Plastering Bureau on numerous occasions over the years. Past President of the C.L.P.C.A. He was also a past board member & past secretary of the Sacramento Builders Exchange. His passion was racing. He sponsored and owned both Sprint & Indy cars. He recently started collecting classic automobiles. Visitation hours will be Friday, April 25, 2008 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm in the River Cities Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Shriner's Children's Hospital in your area.
River Cities
Funeral Chapel
910 Soule St., West Sac.
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Memories and Condolences
for Joel McCray
Kris Carr
April 28, 2008
I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. McCray in person but feel as if I knew him through my son. My son, Sean Carr worked very closely with Mr. McCray right up until his passing and has never spoken so highly of any of his employers. He felt very close to Mr. McCray and had great respect for him. He will be missed greatly but never forgotten. I pray for God's peace, comfort and blessings for his family.
Colette Moody (Kirtley)
April 28, 2008
My heart goes out to Joel McCray's family. I have fond memories going to the McCray's home (when they lived in North Sacto.) and spending time with Heidi and her family. May God's strength and love help you through this difficult time.
Thomas J. Kelly
April 25, 2008
There are very few occasions in ones life when someone is able to meet a truely GREAT MAN! One that should never be forgotten, a visionary, a hard worker, a man of True Character who stood by his word and did what he said he would if only by a handshake. Joel's legacy of the people he helped and the friends he made will live on forever and by the Grace of God and a fast Car...he shall never be forgotten!
Zeke Allert
April 25, 2008
It seems like only yesterday that we were apprentice plasters working along side each other. You will be remembered in the hearts of all your old plastering buddies.
Johnny Anderson
April 23, 2008
Seems like all my life I have known Joel through racing, sponsorship, and fellowship at West Capital. Joel was my car owner with Kenny Woodruff as the machanic while we ran the Outlaws that left so many good memories of our days together. Joel was my friend. I will certainly miss him and send my deepest sympathy to diane and the the rest of the family during this difficult time. Johnny
Ron and Tammy Mendonca and Family
April 23, 2008
As we ourselves know how the lose of a loved one saddens the heart. There is some comfort in the knowing they have gone onto a more restfull and peacefull place. Where we ourselves will someday join them. Our deepest sympathy and prayers are sent to you (Diane) and the rest of the McCray Family.
Bonnie Chisholm
April 22, 2008
West Capital Raceway Alumni Association, we were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
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