Samuel Ray Fitz II, affectionately called, “Ray-Ray”, unexpectedly departed this life on March 20, 2025, to his eternal resting place. Born July 22,1974, in Danville, Virginia, the son of Samuel Ray Fitz and Brenda Pinchback Fitz. He graduated from George Washington High School in 1992, eventually moving to Greensboro, North Carolina, where he resided for over thirty years,
attending North Carolina A&T. Ray was a single, devoted and loving father, his journey into fatherhood brought a mix of emotions, anticipation, uncertainty, excitement, and joy. He wholeheartedly embraced his role, as a devoted father to Tyler Ray Fitz, Ezrah Rucker, and Ryan
Littlejohn, who preceded him in death. Ray recognized the profound responsibility of presiding over his family with love and righteousness, ensuring their well-being and protection.

When You Know Better, Do Better (2 Peter 2:21-22).

From the very beginning, Ray understood the lasting impact of being actively involved in his children lives. He believed that his dedication would not only shape his sons’ futures but also influence generations to come. Fatherhood was both a rewarding and demanding journey, one that brought moments of joy as well as challenges.

Through personal struggles and times of feeling lost, Ray engaged in deep introspection, using these experiences as opportunities for growth. His family and friends, his village, bore witness to his unwavering commitment to self-improvement and his determination to be a strong, loving father.

Ray cherished his role not only as a father but also as an uncle. He challenged himself daily to be the best example of a man for his sons and niece, drawing inspiration from the role models within his own family. His enduring love, resilience, and dedication will forever be remembered and honored by those who knew and loved him.

When He Learned Better, He Did Better (James 4:17).

Ray held many names in his life, from son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, Ray-Ray, Kim Ray- Ray (an inside family joke), Ray-Man, Samuel Ray, mentor, child of God, brother in Christ, leader, and friend to many. However, his favorite roles were being a father and an uncle. Ray navigated through each of these roles with accountability, leading to his spiritual transition.

Choosing to model his faith in God, Ray became a faithful member of Mount Zion Baptist Church, where he served as a special amour-bearer for visiting pastors; founding & counsel member of Men of Valor; a member of the No Greater Love Team, Engagement Team, Security team, and the Mount Zion Dream Team. Joining Mount Zion enriched him with a true brotherhood that paved the way for Ray to embody obedience, servitude, and discipleship to his sons. He also proudly served as the President of the PTA at Archer Elementary School. Ray was employed at Lincoln Financial Group as an Annuities Auditor from 2012 through 2023, where he served as their coordinator of events.

Ray remained a devoted fan of the Washington Redskins, standing by his team with unwavering loyalty even after they became the Washington Commanders. Those who knew Ray's unwavering loyalty to the Washington Commanders understood that any call or interruption during the game was only acceptable if it involved a spirited debate about how his team was destined to
dominate! His beloved sister once made the unfortunate mistake of sending him Seattle Seahawks gear after she relocated to Washington State. The family roared with laughter as she recounted his reaction over the phone, incredulously asking, 'Kimberly Rae are you out of your
mind? Without missing a beat, Ray added,'I hope someone I know or work with wants it, no offense, but that ain’t my TEAM!With a chuckle, he ended the call and, for good measure, sent her a follow-up text featuring the Washington Redskins logo, making his loyalty crystal clear.

Ray's dedication to his faith and his unwavering commitment to his family, community and loyalty to the Washington Commanders will forever be remembered and cherished. His life serves as a testament to growth, love, and the transformative power of faith.

Ray was blessed and leaves to cherish his beloved sons: Tyler and Ezrah of Durham and Greensboro NC; his devoted mother, Brenda; father, Samuel (Jacqueline) all of Danville, VA; brother, Samuel of Collinsville, VA; sisters, Kimberly (Ricky) of Edgewood, WA and sister,
Brittany of Danville, Virginia; only niece, Wendkooney, of Edgewood WA. Uncles: Johnny, of Danville, VA; George (La’Fay) of Pittsburgh PA; Larry (Brenda), of Danville, VA; Aunt: Betty Jean Newman, of Danville, VA and Uncle Jermiah (Rosylind) of Danville, VA. A host of loving
and devoted cousins and relatives. Two devoted friends, Sharon and James, along with many other loving friends.

He was preceded in death: Son, Ryan Littlejohn; Grandparents: Arthur & Louis Pinchback; Elmer & Naomi Fitz; Aunts: Margaret Ann Pinchback; Izetta Ferrell; Evone Fitz and Uncles: Elmer Fitz Jr, Delano Fitz, and John Newman Sr.

Send flowers to the service of Samuel Ray Fitz II.

A wake will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, 5pm-7pm Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home Chapel 909 East Market Street Greensboro, North Carolina.

A funeral service to honor Ray's life will be held Monday, March 31, 2025, 12pm Mt. Zion Baptist Church 1301 Alamance Church Road Greensboro, North Carolina.

Repast immediately following funeral at 500 Four Seasons Town Center Greensboro, North Carolina.