Maria Loraine Ray

Maria Loraine Xuereb-Ray, 47, peacefully passed away on January 8, 2025, in McDonough, Georgia. She was the beloved wife of Buster (Ronnie) Lee Ray Jr., with whom she would have celebrated 30 years of marriage this year. She was the devoted mother to Isaiah, Jonas, Alani, and Aryssa Ray.

Maria is survived by her husband, Buster Lee Ray Jr.; her children, Isaiah Kendrick Ray, Jonas Griggs Ray, and Aryssa Caprianna Josephine Ray; her parents, Joseph Charles (Giuseppi Carmelo Salvatore) Xuereb and Judy (Judith) Elaine Xuereb; her siblings, Joey Charles Xuereb jr., Linda Godmer, and Ian McLaughlin; and her cherished grandchildren, Josiah Lee Ray, Amelia Rose Ray, and Jensen Griggs Ray. She is also survived by her daughters-in-law, Victoria Paige Ray and Jordan Lee Ray; her in-laws, Paula B. Ray, Ronnie Lee Ray Sr., Billy Ray, and Katie Ray; her cousins, the Millwoods; and her family in Malta. Included are her lifelong best friends, Sonia George and Jamie Head. She meets her daughter Alani in heaven and they will play together for eternity where the sky meets the sea.

Born in Daytona Beach, Florida, Maria was the daughter of Joe and Judy Xuereb and the sister of Joey Xuereb, Linda Godmer, and Ian McLaughlin. Throughout her life, Maria worked in various roles but dedicated most of her career to dental and medical billing and management. She was a faithful and beloved member of Stockbridge Community Church, where she found great joy in serving on the care team and sharing the love of the Lord with everyone she encountered.

Maria will be remembered for her unwavering faith and devotion to God. No matter the battles she faced, she always praised Him. She spread joy and positivity wherever she went, fiercely standing by her family and friends. Her children will remember her as a loving mother with the most compassionate heart and kind spirit. Maria was a courageous woman with a radiant smile that could light up any room. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Maria’s legacy of faith, love, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Always on my mind, Forever in my heart.

Dejjem f'moħħi, għal dejjem f'qalbi.

A visitation of family and friends for Maria will be held Tuesday, January 14, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. A celebration of life will occur Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 1:00 PM, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. A graveside committal service will occur Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Fairview Memorial Gardens, 164 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281.