Ray Maxwell

Obituary For Ray Maxwell

Ray Carlton Maxwell Sr., affectionately called “Elder Ray”, entered this earthly realm August 10, 1958, to the union of the late Elder Samuel & Doris Maxwell. Ray received Christ into his life at an early age and became a faithful member of the Power House COGIC under the late Superintendent Elder Samuel Garner and under the current leadership of Elder Robert J. Peggs.

An alumnus of Hamilton High School, and Memphis State University, Ray was employed for over 30 years with The Bryce Corporation until he began to experience health challenges.

An ordained Elder, Ray served in many capacities which included a provocative teacher, profound preacher, professional singer, powerful worship leader and a propulsive percussionist. He utilized his Godly musical gift with the TN 5th Jurisdictional and International Music Department, The Power House Sanctuary, Inspiration Choirs, the Men’s Chorus and The Soul Messengers, a quartet group of the Power House COGIC. It was in this group where he, and Billy Rivers, as teenagers performed as a duo, singing, I’m Satisfied Now and Jesus Will Fix It.

Ray continued his vocal career with The Legendary Billy Rivers & The Angelic Voices of Faith, where he was the lead vocalist on five music projects (If I Can Help Somebody, Then Came You, I Can’t Forget It, Everytime, Never Leave Me, and Waymaker). Ray also recorded with Marvin Grant, and other renowned music artists.

Rejoicingly, Ray joins in the heavenly realm, his parents, Elder Samuel and Doris Maxwell, and his siblings, Larry, Jacqueline, and Sandra.

In this earthly realm, Ray leaves behind to cherish his memory and legacy: four sons, Ray Jr. (Tiphani), Timothy, Joshua and Courtney; his siblings, Samuel II and Juanita (Danny) Osbourne, eight grandchildren, as well as a host of relatives.

A voice perhaps silenced too soon, the legacy of “Elder Ray” Maxwell will forever be cherished and sealed in the hearts and memories of his family, extended family and friends, along with his church family, The Power House COGIC and his music family, Billy Rivers and The Angelic Voices of Faith.

“For Me, To Live Is Christ and To Die Is Gain”

The family will receive friends Friday, August 22, 2025 from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Powerhouse Church Of God In Christ 1546 Cane Rd, Memphis, TN 38106. Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 11:00am at Golden Gate 3240 James Rd, Memphis, TN 38128

Internment will be in Memorial Park Poplar 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119