Bailey's Funeral Home | New York, NY

Obituary For Gloria McCray

Gloria McCray, daughter of the late Ruth Clark and Ellis McCray Sr was born on November 9, 1940 in Edisto Island, South Carolina. She departed this life on August 17, 2021, surrounded by those who will continue to love and cherish her memories.

Gloria affectionately known as "Big Gloria", "Ms. G', "Myma", "Glo", "Moping Glo" and "Chocolate Girl" grew up in Harlem. She attended P.S. 89 Elementary School, Harriet Beecher Stowe Middle School and Julia Richman High School. She worked at Bore-Core Paint Supplies up until 1975, then her journey and interest were solidified. She began her life long calling at Addie Mae Collins Head Start Program. She was a natural born nurturer finding herself starting a daycare of her own after retirement.

She was strict, hold no punches, say what's on your mind kind of girl. She was vibrant, full of life and would take you in with open arms. Along with her striking beauty a phenomenal personality. She was witty and always had a comeback. She was larger than life and she knew it. She loved her children dearly, but those grands.....she loved them most. She was the provider and matriarch of an entire village. Her arms reached far and wide. She made you feel like you were always loved and welcomed in her home anytime. There was always food on the stove cooked to perfection when you came to Ms. G's house. She was a leader of Kings and Queens and she will be missed immensely.

Leaving behind to cherish her memories: brother, Ellis McCray Jr (Linda McCray); aunt, Helen Wright; three daughters Marguerite Edwards, Michelle McCray, and Stacey McCray; 21 grandchildren, Vanessa Nichols, Jermaine Bolden, Raheem Bolden (Theresa Bolden), Damani Johnson (Flor Johnson), Tashara Edward (Ron Jenkins), Shavaun Martin (William Paige), Marquis Martin, Tochelle McCray, Cory Hickson, Naeema McCray, Kyme McCray, Wesley Capel, Kristine McLeod, Mary Martin, Kylia Martin, Jasmine Martin, Jennifer Martin, Bishme McLeod, Jaden McCray-Bantum, Taquel Martin, My'asia Martin; a host of great and great great grands; three nieces, Natalie Wright, Jamela Salley, Ashante McCray; two nephews, Jamal McCray and Omar McCray; five godchildren, Mark Madden, Eric Curry, Randell Maybank, Asia Lewis and Taseana Richards. She also leaves to mourn many cousins and friends.

Guest Book

Dearest Stacey McCray and Family, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved mother! Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time of bereavement. Approximately 45 years ago Ms. McCray was my teacher at Addie Mae Collins Head Start Program. I went on to attend Elementary School, as well as Junior High School with her daughter Stacey. Ms. McCray was a strong Black woman with a big heart and beautiful smile. I wish I could have been present to pay my respect. I am praying for strength and comfort for the family. May she rest in peace! Peace and Blessings, Love Always, Rev. Dr. Derrick S. Johnson Sr🙏🏾

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To our family we are keeping you all lifted in prayer. We Love you all very much! Yivette, Ronald, Nita, Tyler, Jayla, Donnie and Edwina

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McCray Family, Purple candle lit because of your Mother's royalty. May God embrace each and everyone of you. Love Zena Spence

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Bailey's Funeral Home | New York, NY