It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Dean Ray, of Jacksonville, Florida, age 69, on August 18th, 2026. Mike was born on January, 25th, 1957, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to William and Mary Ray.

Mike was a graduate of Trenton High School and attended the University of Missouri. His career reflected his values, loyalty, teachability, and dependability. He began his career humbly in Trenton, MO where he found a passion for retail at Duncan’s Shoe’s. Mike continued his career in 1979 at Goldie’s department store, where he worked as a director of operations. After over a decade, he began his tenure with Stein Mart, where he served the rest of his career. Mike joined Stein Mart in February of 1990 as a General Manager. He was promoted to District Director of Stores in July 1994, Regional Director of Stores in January 1997 and to Senior Vice President, Director of Stores in September 2001. He worked for Stein Mart until his retirement in 2020. In retirement, Mike started a business with his son, “Mike and his truck” that specialized in moving, furniture delivery, and junk cleanup.

Mike lived with enthusiasm and determination. He was known to many as “Coach Mike” for his many years of coaching I-9 Football for his son. He was an avid runner, a proud father, a loyal fan of the Missouri Tigers, St. Louis Cardinals, and a 17 year season ticket holder for the Jacksonville Jaguars and he loved to fly, having earned his pilot’s license. He was passionate about helping others, teaching, and creating life-long memories for those he loved. As a proud member of the Jacksonville/Jax Beaches community, he gave back by serving as a board member for “Dignity U Wear” from 2003-2015, as well as serving food at Mission House beginning in 2007. He was a member of Beaches United Methodist Church, Jacksonville Beach, FL. Whether pursuing his own interests or encouraging others, he brought warmth, commitment, and a generous spirit to everything he did.

Those who knew Mike often described him as a saint and an angel. He never spoke poorly of others and was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was hardworking, sensitive, empathetic, and deeply devoted to his family. Mike had an especially big heart for his children and animals, and his kindness and generosity were among the qualities his loved ones treasured.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Sofia Marie Ray; daughter Jessilyn D. Ray of Brooklyn NY, son Lucas D. Ray of Daytona Beach, and brothers, William C. Ray, Randolph D. Ray of Orlando, FL and Timothy C. Ray of Missouri, step-son Nikita A. Kozlov, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sister Peggy Janssen-McKee, Father William K. Ray, and mother Mary H. McKim Ray.

Mike will be remembered for his generous heart, his devotion to those he loved, and the kindness he extended so freely to others. His unexpected passing leaves an immeasurable absence in the lives of his family and friends, but the love he gave and the memories they shared will remain with them always.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at St. Paul’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, 465 11th Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250.