Delores E Ray

Phillippians 2:3,4- Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility value others above yourselves. Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.

Delores E. Mauk-Ray passed peacefully in her sleep on February 9, 2024, one week before her 79th birthday. She was born to Saul and Macy Roberson on February 17, 1945, in Cleveland, Ohio. She was one of seven children, five of which pre-deceased her. She was married at eighteen to her first husband, Authur Mauk Jr. and was widowed at the age of twenty- six with three young children. She dedicated her life to Christ in her late teens and raised her family in the church, first Bible Baptist Church (5 years) and later Good Shepherd Baptist Church (40 years). Delores lived a life of service and commitment to Christ and her community.

She was blessed, after being widowed for 13 years, to wed Pastor Willie Clyde Ray. Through their union, they had one son. their beloved son, Roman Clyde Ray, preceded her in death on November 25, 2017, leaving her with three grandchildren who were a joy and comfort to her. Willie and Delores celebrated 42 years of marriage last year.

Delores received her High School Diploma from East Technical High School in June 1963. She spent her life studying the Bible and teaching young children the Word of God: especially in Sunday School. If you spent any time with Delores, you will have heard her talk about what it takes to be a Christian and you would have memorized John 3:16 and 1 John 1:9.

Delores loved to serve and had an intense work ethic. She worked eight years as a seamstress for Richmond Brothers. She later served eight years as a lunch-aid at Grace Mount Elementary School to be near her children. This role ensured that every child in the Lee- Harvard area knew, loved and feared Mrs. Mauk. She later spent fifteen years working for the Cleveland Board of Education repairing school bus seats. She was single-handedly responsible for the entire fleet of 300 buses stored at various depots. her children and any other un-willing assistants can attest to her skill, determination and ability since they barely survived working summer jobs alongside her.

She was blessed to retired from 1995 to 2005 but the call to serve had her go back into the work force as a Home Healthcare Aid for fifteen years; retiring again at age 70. Delores loved people. She not only worked in health care, but she would sing and witness to all who came in contact with her. Her witness was the gospel message of salvation, but it was also through cheesecakes, sweet potato pies and pound cakes.

Her grandchildren could be heard exclaiming, "Wow, how many desserts did you make to give away during the holidays this year grandma?!!" while they were enjoying the ones made especially for them.

Delores was called mom by many people inside and outside of her immediate family. Her open heart, giving spirit and teaching nature were shared with all (whether they stood in line a Giant Eagle or were unknown New Yorkers on the subway during her visits with Family).

She leaves to cherish her loving memories, her devoted husband, Pastor Willie Clyde Ray: one sibling, Curtis Roberson: three children, Richard Mauk, Rodney Mauk Sr. and Rachel Hastie: eight grandchildren, Mariah, Rodney Jr. Roderick, Noah, ruby, Paris, Arionna and Brittain: one great grandchild, Rakim: and a large host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Matthew 25:21 - Well done, good and faithful servant, you have been faithful...!!!!!!!!!!!!

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