It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Albirda Ray, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, who departed this life on February 16, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on July 10, 1932, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to the union of Mary O'Hare and Alga Wallace. Albirda was a devoted pillar of her family and community, whose legacy will forever be cherished.

In 1949, Albirda married her beloved husband, Sim Ray Jr. They shared a remarkable 75 years of love and partnership, raising ten beautiful children together. In their journey, the Rays moved to Muskegon, Michigan, where Albirda worked diligently as a kitchen worker at Lakos Restaurant, known for its warm hospitality and hearty meals. Friends and family will remember her for the warmth she brought to both her home and work, along with her strong faith and unwavering commitment to her church.

Albirda was actively involved in her spiritual community, having been a member of St. Luke Baptist Church, New Hope Baptist Church, and, most recently, Christian Fellowship Outreach Church under the guidance of Rev. Tyrone Rule. Her vibrant spirit was evident in her participation on the Mothers Board and her beautiful voice in the church choir. A lover of nature, Albirda found joy in tending to her garden, where she grew a variety of flowers and vegetables, reflecting the beauty and care she nurtured in her life.

In recognition of their remarkable parenting, Albirda and Sim were honored with the 2015 Most Extraordinary Parents award at the BEAT Awards for those aged 70 and above, a testament to the love and values they instilled in their family.

Albirda is survived by her loving children: Lola Wiseman, Mary Bruce, Herbert (Keenya) Ray, Patricia Ray, Michael (Linda) Ray, Sandra (Gregory) Briggs, Thelma (Kenneth) Grissom, Jackie (Curtis) Adams, and Linda Ray. She also leaves behind a cherished legacy of 19 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Albirda is remembered by her sisters, Florida Clark and Barbara Wallace, brothers, Alga Wallace, Ronnie Wallace, and James Wallace. She is preceded in death by her husband, Sim, son Velester, sister, Eller Sturgis; brothers, Robert Jamison and Sammie Jamison, and grandchildren, Tonya Kirksey, Eric Bridgeford, and Michael Townsend Jr. She leaves behind her beloved and loyal dog, Chance Ray, who will miss her dearly.

In reverence to her life and contributions, a funeral service will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 12 Noon at Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church, with visitation one hour before the service. Albirda will be laid to rest at Sunrise Memorial Gardens, beside her beloved husband, Sim, where their journey continues in eternal unity.

As we honor the life of Albirda Ray, we invite all to celebrate her legacy of love, faith, and family. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew her.