Aubrey Raynard Graham

Aubrey Raynard Graham, affectionately known as "Ray," age 60, of Locust Grove, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. He was the second child of Aubrey L. Graham (deceased) and Betty R. Graham. Ray was born on August 31, 1964 in Manhattan, NY. During Ray's teenage years, the family relocated to Leesburg, FL where he graduated from Leesburg High School. Shortly after high school, Ray enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was stationed at Camp Lejeune in NC. He proudly served on active duty and later received an honorable discharge. After his military service, Ray returned to New York, where he worked as a trade laborer. He later transferred his job to Atlanta, GA, to be closer to his immediate family. About 10 years ago, Ray took a position with CDC in Atlanta as an armed guard. Despite the move, Ray regularly visited close family and friends in Brooklyn, NY, whom he loved dearly. Ray had an outgoing personality and was known as a gentle giant. He loved to eat, especially chocolate, in all forms, from ice cream to cake to candy. An avid fan of the New York Giants (G-men), Ray always looked forward to football season. His favorite music group was Sly and the Family Stone, and he loved watching the TV show Blue Bloods. Ray is preceded in death by his father, Aubrey L. Graham, and his brother-in-law, Curtis L. Jackson. He is survived by his wife, Michelle Smith-Graham, his mother, Betty R. Graham of Leesburg, FL; his three siblings: Audrey Graham-Jackson of Norcross, GA; Terrence (Denise) Graham of Locust Grove, GA; and Pamela Graham of Bayshore, NY. his mother-in law, Willie J. Smith of Locust Grove, GA, brothers-in law, Henry (Audrey) Smith of CA, Anthony (Toni) Smith of OK and Tess (Albert) Edwards of LA. Additionally, he is survived by a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on January 11, 2025 at Haisten Funerals and Cremations in McDonough, Georgia.