Major Wayne Ray

Major Wayne Ray, 84, of Hominy, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a deep love for his family and the outdoors.

Major was born on January 6, 1942, in Baytown, Texas, to Adolphus Valentine "A.V." Ray and Leona Lillian Henderson Ray. At the age of two, his family moved to Hominy, where he was raised and attended Hominy Public Schools, graduating from Hominy High School. He began working at a neighborhood grocery store at just 12 years old, developing the strong work ethic that would define his life.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army from May 27, 1964, until December 15, 1969. Following his military service, Major was a proud member of the Teamsters Union for over 32 years until his retirement. During that time he was employed with Borden/Meadow Gold Dairy and later with Interstate Bakeries Corporation (Hostess Cakes) as a retail route salesman.

On October 28, 1985, Major married the love of his life, Melodie Gaye Ray, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Together they shared nearly 40 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and countless fishing trips. They first met while Major was working in Tulsa and spent their honeymoon at Tenkiller Lake, where they enjoyed days of fishing and dreamed of many more adventures together.

Major found his greatest happiness outdoors. Whether he was casting a line into the water, hunting in the woods, or working around the farm, he was in his element. He was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life and valued time spent with family above all else. His quiet kindness, dependable nature, and willingness to lend a helping hand will be remembered by everyone who knew him.

He was a faithful member of Calvary Worship Center.

Major is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Melodie Gaye Ray; his son, Todd Wayne Ray and wife Yvonne; stepdaughter, Mandy Holeman-Doty; and stepson, Jon Holeman and wife Julie. He is also survived by his brothers, Ocie Ray and wife Sue, Carroll Ray and wife Sue, and Johnny Ray; his sisters, Barbara Bucklew, Margaret Coffer, and Connie Horn and husband Eddie; grandchildren Nicole Johnson (Jeremy), Todd Ray (Jazzmine), Tiffany King (Skye), Clay Doty (Heather Davis), Nathan Holeman, Melissa Holeman, and Tyler Holeman; great-grandchildren Kaliyah Ray, Grace Ray, Connor Ray, Todd "EJ" Ray, and Zoey Jones; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, A.V. and Leona Ray; his son, Jeffery Lee Ray; his former wife, Shirley Jean Ray; his brothers, Preston Ray, Jimmy Ray, and Timmy Ray; his sister, LaQueta Sink; his brothers-in-law, John Sink and Bill Coffer; and his nephew, Paul Ray.

Major's life was one of service, integrity, humility, and love. He will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to his family, his pride in serving his country, and the countless memories made beside a lake, in a hunting blind, or around the family table. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made in memory of Major for Summer Youth Camp; to the Calvary Worship Center, 625 North Eastern Ave, Hominy, Oklahoma 74035.