Kenneth J. Ray was born on March 29, 1958, in Paducah, Kentucky, to Aaron Ray and Eloise Thompson. He was the eldest of five children. In 2024, Kenneth accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, embracing a faith that brought him comfort and peace. He departed this earthly life on March 27, 2026, after a two-year fight with pancreatic cancer.

Kenneth attended Akron Public Schools. Throughout his adult life, the Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD) provided him with meaningful employment opportunities and enriching experiences. He took pride in his janitorial work and valued the independence it gave him. Among his cherished memories was a sponsored trip to Disneyland in Florida with a group of adults, where he experienced his very first airplane flight. More recently, Kenneth enjoyed visiting a Smart House, where he explored and appreciated the modern technology designed to support independent living.

Although Kenneth retired from employment at age 62, he remained active. He enjoyed taking walks throughout his neighborhood, tending to his yard, and helping neighbors with theirs including moving their trash cans to and from the curb. He was always ready with a greeting to everyone, even the stranger walking down the street.

Kenneth’s remarkable memory was his superpower. He could recall the real names of television actors across generations of shows and had an impressive knowledge of sports players. He also enjoyed working on puzzles and playing video games in his leisure time.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his grandparents, Aaron and Ethel Ray, Pauline Townsley and Turner Broady; his stepfather, Mose Thompson; his stepmother, Joann Ray; his uncles, Nathaniel Ray, Elmer Hammonds, and J.O. Townsley; his aunts, Jean Ray and Mary Hammonds; his brother, Karl Ray; and his nephew, Terrell Ray.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Renithe, Kenneth Jr., and Eloise; his grandson, Lawrence; his parents, Aaron Ray and Eloise Thompson; his siblings, Karen (Eric) Bryant, Kimberly (Mercer) Mitchell, and Kelly Ray; his aunts, Carolyn (Ted) Martin and Barbara Townsley; his special neighbors, Tracey and Jan; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Kenneth was known for his kindness, resilience, and gentle spirit, and will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In Lieu of flowers please donate to Summit DD donation fund 2355 Second St. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

Condolences can be sent to 721 Inverness Rd. Akron, OH 44313