Rodney Dwayne McCray Sr.

Elder Rodney Dwayne “Rod” McCray Sr. was born in Washington, D.C., on September 17, 1964, to the late Franklin McCray Sr. and Elizabeth McCray. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, elder, and community servant. He died on March 2, 2025, in Olney, Maryland, at 60. Rodney lived a life of faith, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Rodney received his GED from the University of the District of Columbia. He pursued his education with determination, earning an associate degree in Business from Montgomery College, and was preparing to walk across the stage in May 2025. His commitment to lifelong learning extended further as he worked toward a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity at Montgomery College.

Rodney’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. After rededicating himself to Christ, he became a member of God’s Universal Kingdom Christian Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Fernette Saint Nichols, where he served on the DORCAS Community and sang in numerous choirs. He studied at the National Bible College and Seminary to deepen his understanding of the Word of God, where he was trained and ordained as a minister and began his outreach and prison ministry. He served the homeless community by providing meals and support in shelters throughout the D.C. area. He later founded Living for God’s Kingdom Outreach Ministries, which is dedicated to being “fishers of men.” This passion for mentorship led him to participate in a Big Brother program that guided young men toward success in society and in their spiritual journeys, offering hope, love, and faith-based guidance to those in need. He actively participated in reentry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them reintegrate into society with purpose and dignity. His impact will live on through the countless lives he touched and the wisdom he shared.

Professionally, Rodney was a Store Manager for various restaurants and automotive stores. Throughout his career, his expertise and leadership earned multiple awards, and he was corporately recognized for his outstanding achievements. Such places as Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wendy’s, Super Trak Warehouse, Merchants, and Pep Boys. He had the honor of opening and managing numerous Advance Auto Parts stores, where he eventually retired due to health reasons.

Rodney found immense joy in his hobbies. He was passionate about buying, working on, and selling cars. He took great pleasure in teaching others about automotive repair. He was a man who enjoyed fishing, all things sports-related, for he was a die-hard Redskins fan who is now named the Washington Commanders, and he enjoyed attending various jazz concerts and festivals. His love for cooking was evident in his love of grilling and smoking meats and southern foods, which led him to create LFG Smokehouse L.L.C. Where he partnered with his daughter Keturah, preparing meals, catering events, and ensuring their customers felt like family.

He is preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Aarion McCray. He leaves to cherish him in his memory his wife, Angela D. McCray; his eight children: Rodney Jr.; Keturah (Berkley Sr.;) Elinor (Bradley;) Patrick; Gerrod; Angelique (Alijah;) Angel Lane; and Rachel; his 19 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. His three brothers, Franklin Jr., Gregory, and Kermit; his sister, Lajuan; His beloved Aunt Ruth; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.