Delia J. Ray (August 2, 1934 – December 17, 2019)

Visitation: Friday, December 27, 2019
Visitation Time:  5:00 – 7:00 PM
Visitation Location:  New St. Mark Independent Free Methodist Church
1001 W. Grand Street
Orlando, Florida

Service Date:  Saturday, December 28, 2019
Service Time:  11:00 AM
Service Location: New St. Mark Independent Free Methodist Church
1001 W. Grand Street
Orlando, Florida

Obituary:

Delia J. Ray, 85, of Orlando, transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday, December 17, 2019. Delia, a lifelong resident of Orlando, was born on August 2, 1934 to Percy Lee Mills and Clay Taylor. Delia was a faithful and active member of New St. Mark Independent Free Methodist Church, Orlando, serving in several capacities. She was employed as the Director for the Florida Department of Professional Regulation of Real Estate.

Delia dedicated her life to service to her family and community. She was a life member of the AMVETS Auxiliary, Orlando. She also served as the Past State President of AMVETS. Delia was the Former District Deputy and Grand Daughter Ruler of the Elks Temple 890, Orlando, as well as, a Past Officer of The Every Ready Club.

Delia enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. She was the matriarch of the Ray family, who instilled love, wisdom, and Christian values for all her children and grandchildren to follow. Delia was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, servant leader and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Delia is survived by her sons, Donald R. (ShaRi) Tarpley, Jr., Clarence L. (Velera) Tarpley, Sr.; daughter, Chana (Jerome) Thomas; sister, Dymita Taylor; 10 grandchildren; grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 27, 2019 from 5-7PM at the church. A service of celebration will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2019, 11:00AM at New St. Mark Independent Free Methodist Church, 1001 W. Grand Street, Orlando with Reverend Joshua Reed, officiating. Interment: Florida National VA Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.