Johnny Mccray, Jr.

Johnny "Dubeck" McCray Jr., a man of steadfast love and generosity, passed away peacefully in O'Fallon, Illinois, on October 15, 2023, at the age of 64. Born in Ashford, Alabama, on September 9, 1959, to Mary Charles McCray and the late Johnny McCray Sr., Johnny lived a life filled with dedication, compassion, and kindness.

Johnny was a devoted husband to his wife, Sabrina McCray, and a loving father to his children, Johnny McCray III (Stacy), Phillip McCray (Natasha), Shannon McCray, Tyrone Jackson (Kia), Tyreeck McCray (Amber), Sedrick McCray, Cassandra Kiblin, and Sheneka Luverette (Raeshawn). His legacy also lives on through his 23 grandchildren, brothers Ronnie McCray (Kristen), Christopher McCray, Douglas McCray, Heath McCray, and sisters Barbara Sanders (Jerome), Sharon Black (Michael), Benita Freeman (Alfred), Jaqueline Amos (Greg), and Ruby Jewel Stewart. Johnny also left behind a host of nieces, nephews, and relatives. His family will remember him as a beacon of guidance, a pillar of strength, and a source of unconditional love.

Despite leaving school early to join the Job Corps, Johnny never let that deter his pursuit of knowledge. He earned his GED and continued his commitment to service by joining the United States Army as part of the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, NC. Johnny's military career took him to Wurzburg, Germany, where he demonstrated his leadership skills. He also served at Fort Stewart, GA, where his dedication and discipline were highly regarded. His commitment to service continued at Camp Humphreys, Korea, where he was known for his resilience and determination. Johnny was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield, GA, and Fort Campbell, KY. At each location, he left a lasting impact, earning the respect and admiration of his peers. Upon retiring from the Army, Johnny worked for the Federal government at Scott Air Force base in Illinois. His commitment to his work was a testament to his selflessness and dedication to serving others.

Johnny's interests were as vast as his heart. He was loving, caring, and giving, especially towards children. His actions were always sincere, and he served as a father figure to his younger siblings, guiding them with wisdom and a warm heart. His interests were a reflection of his character: loving, generous, and thoughtful. In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching Alabama football and playing golf.

In the words of Mother Teresa, "We know only too well that what we are doing is nothing more than a drop in the ocean. But if the drop were not there, the ocean would be missing something." Johnny was that significant drop in the ocean of life. He made a difference in the lives of those he touched with his warmth and generosity, leaving a void that can never be filled.

Johnny "Dubeck" McCray Jr. will forever be remembered as a man who loved deeply, gave generously, and lived selflessly. His life was a testament to the power of kindness and the enduring strength of the human spirit. His memory will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved ones. His was a life well-lived, marked by acts of kindness, a spirit of generosity, and a heart full of love.

Funeral services will be held 1:00pm, Saturday, October 28, 2023, at United Christian Fellowship with Reverend Truman Williams officiating. A burial will follow at Pilgram Rest Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services.