Michael James Ray Jr.

Michael James Ray Jr., 42, of Poplar Bluff, MO passed away on October 11, 2023, at his home in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Michael was born on August 21, 1981, to Sheryl and Michael James Ray Sr in Houma, Louisiana.  After Michael graduated from Poplar Bluff High school in 2002, he went on to work at SEMO drug rehab, followed by Briggs and Stratton. 

In 1999, Michael met Shannon Yager while working at Hardee’s North. Michael and Shannon married on April 1, 2003. They went on to have 3 children, Draydenn Ray, Kahlynn Ray, LJ McNeal. In October 2016 the Ray family officially became Professional Parents and opened their home to their first foster placements. Since then, they have fostered over 30 children in their home. 

In 2011, Michael became medically disabled. Although Michael lived most of his life in physical pain he was always cutting up and making you laugh with his wit and dark humor. He loved his family tremendously. Was always very proud of his wife and kids. 

When not spending time with his family, he enjoyed time with his friends far and near. Michael and some of his local friends had a long-standing Saturday game night where they could let their imagination run free playing fantasy tabletop RPG. This close-knit group of friends were there for him when he had rough days as well as Michael being there for them through their rough times. He will be sorely missed by this wonderful group of people. 

When Michael wasn’t with family and friends, he enjoyed watching movies, watching WWE, playing video games, finding and sending memes to make others laugh, and spending time with his doggo Princess. She never left his side. 

Michael is survived by his wife Shannon Ray, Mother Sheryl Fonseca, children Draydenn Ray, Kahlynn Ray, LJ McNeal, and many bonus children. Along with sister Maryia (Wes) Tayloe, Brother Rusty (Cindy) Mathews as well as Father in-law and Mother in-law Larry and Pamlea Chadwick with 5 brother in-laws and 4 Sister in-laws along with many nieces and nephews, and 3 doggss Dexter, Princess, and Happy.
Michael was preceded by his Father Michael Ray Sr and Grandmother Elta Fonseca.
Visitation will be held on October 23,2023, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home in Poplar Bluff, MO.
Memorial service will be officiated by Brother Wesley Tayloe in the chapel at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home following visitation.

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