It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Fomby our beloved father, grandfather brother uncle and friend. However great the loss, we should not mourn for long for we are here to honor and celebrate a life that warrants the attention of our God in Heaven… Brother Raymond.

Raymond Fomby was born in Ragland, AL to the union of Cleveland and Ophelia Fomby on September 7, 1947, and lived a life filled with the will to follow Christ and serve others in the spirit of love. Known for the unconditional love of his family and the heart to give, Raymond married Denise Coles in September of 1972. Through this union, they created three beautiful children. In October of 1976, Raymond received an honorable discharge from the Army and elected to pursue the life of a family man while serving the city of New York as an agent of the transportation system. It was here that he managed to provide a life for his family until he relocated to Greensboro, NC, to pursue a more relaxed life, focused on managing his well-being and exercising the right to love and engage others with the heart of Christ. Raymond touched countless lives through his poems and acts of subtle kindness that left the greatest impression on all that he encountered.

Raymond is survived by the following: Three children-Raymond Fomby Jr. (son), Derek Fomby (son) and Deneva Fomby (daughter) along with 8 grandchildren. He also leaves behind four sisters: Deloris Garland (Samuel), Dollie Ragland, Edith Hendrix (Lonnie), and Lottie Turner and a host of Nieces and Nephews.

He was preceded in death by His parents Cleveland and Ophelia Fomby as well as eight brothers; Orbin, Oscar, Roy, Jimmie, Bobby, Lonnie, Kenneth and Benjamin Fomby. While Raymond’s health created challenges, he remained faithful to his family and dedicated to showing the light of Christ through his walk until he was called home on April 17, 2026.

Raymond’s legacy will be remembered as a man that needed no one’s approval but God. A man that was secure in his understanding of what he wanted was unapologetic for how he walked his walk and talked his talk. While he spoke in riddles and was viewed as eclectic, he will be missed for his gentle spirit and reflective candor His presence brought joy, confidence, wisdom, and comfort to all who knew them.

VISITATION: 11 AM - 12 Noon, Saturday, April 25, 2026, Abundant Life Church - 323 S. 12th Street - Gadsden, AL 35901

FUNERAL SERVICE: 12 Noon, Saturday, April 25, 2026, Abundant Life Church - 323 S. 12th Street - Gadsden, AL 35901

INTERMENT: Morning Star Baptist Church Cemetery - 2650 Morning Star Rd - Ragland, AL 35131