Brett W. Ray Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Brett Wallace Ray, age 59, of Marion, IL, passed away peacefully at 7:20 a.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022, at his home. He was born on November 30, 1962, in Marion, the son of Lecil and Deanna (Ellis) Ray. He spent the last ten years of his life in faithful love with his wife Lana, having been united in marriage on August 21, 2015, and completely smitten with one another from day one. Brett was a man of several trades and talents. For many, a person’s occupation and their hobbies are separate, but for Brett, they were one and the same. Brett thoroughly believed in the principle of loving what you do for a living, and he followed that every day of his life. In his younger years, Brett developed a deep interest in drag and road racing, eventually gaining the knowledge and expertise to participate professionally, and also establishing his own business, R and R Racing, where he fabricated and manufactured custom racing parts, with his beloved father, Lecil. Over the years, Brett was a part of many local, state and national races including various series such as the AAMRR, CCS, AMA Pro, and MOT-ST races, even having participated in the Daytona 200 and circuit racing. These races provided the fortunate opportunities for him to form lifelong connections and friendships that coincidentally lead him to his next line of work in the film making industry. Brett was immediately enamored with the process of film making after being offered a position as a crew member on the movie “B.L. Striker”. From the get go, he set his sights on mastering the skills needed for success in the field of cinematography. Brett didn’t want to just learn how to “make a movie”, he wanted to learn and perfect every aspect from the ground up, including videography, writing, editing, production, and set building. Brett worked as a crew member on several sets including television shows, commercials and some films, again forging meaningful friendships along the way. Most recently, Brett’s goal was aimed at finishing and premiering the civil war era film he had put his heart and soul into for over the past two years alongside his wife, Lana, and many cast and crewmembers. Brett had an intense passion for everything he set his sights on. He marched to the beat of his own drum, and when he had a goal, he reached it. When he worked, he was ceaseless. When he spoke, he was honest and candid. When he loved, he loved fiercely. When he forgave, it was completely. When he was afraid…well, that is one thing he never was. He was a loving husband, faithful friend, dependable and proud father, loyal son, and the best “Pop Pop” in the world (as proclaimed by his grandchildren). He will be so very missed, by so very many. He is survived by his wife, Lana Ray of Marion; mother and father, Deanna and Lecil Ray of West Frankfort, IL; son, Brandon Ray of West Frankfort, IL; three step-daughters, Morgan Thomas and husband, Jon of Mt. Vernon, IL, Ashley Waldrop and husband, Justin of Columbia, IL and Makenzie Johnston of Marion; step-son, Taylor Wicks and wife, Jacalyn of Carbondale, IL; six grandchildren, Xander Fuqua, Kori Thomas, Ellis Waldrop, Elliot Rosario, Cooper Wicks and Easton Wicks; sister, Ellen Denise Sumrall of New Roads, LA; aunt, Peggy Ellis of Marion; two nieces, Lace Major and husband, Marty of New Roads, LA and Brittany Groom and husband, Josh of Claremore, OK; nephew, Cody Doris and wife, Audrey of Wichita, KS, five great nieces and great nephews; three sisters-in-law, Angie Doris of Claremore, OK, Amy Sanders and husband, John of Marion and Valerie Nall and husband, Terry of Sparta, IL, other extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his niece, Abbie Woolsey of West Frankfort. Arrangements were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL. The visitation was from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at the funeral home. During the time of visitation, a “Reflection of Life” DVD Memorial Tribute featuring special family, places and events in Brett’s life was presented. Following the time of visitation, the service was at 7:00 p.m. with members of Brett’s family; Morgan, Brandon, Makenzie, Taylor and Lana presiding. Special musical selections presented during the service were “Thank You” by The Golden Girl’s Theme Song and “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. Toward the conclusion of the service a special video of Brett enjoying life to the fullest was presented. Following the service, the family and friends gathered at the Marion Elk’s Club for a meal. The family has requested for those who prefer, memorial contributions be made to either or both; “Alzheimer’s Association” (in honor of his mother, Deanna Ray) and/or “Finding Forever Animal Rescue” (in honor of Poot, Squeaks, Buster and Oliver…and any other animal that mysteriously appeared on his door step). Memorial contributions were mailed in care of Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court Street, Marion, IL, 62959. For additional information call the funeral home at 618-993-2131.

Brett W. Ray

November 30, 1962 - May 6, 2022