Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mr. James Lewis “Lou” McCray, 68, of Beckley, WV passed Friday, August 29, 2025.

Lou was born on May 22, 1957, in Beckley, WV, to the late James and Joan Wynetta McCray.

James departed this life on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Beth Abraham Center in the Bronx, NY, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Lou began his early education in the Beckley, WV, school system before moving with his family to New York City, where he continued his studies in the New York Public School system.

Lou, throughout his life, embraced hard work with dignity and dedication. He held various jobs in restaurants, customer service, and construction, always giving his best and taking pride in supporting his family through honest work.

Lou, early 30 years ago, made the selfless decision to return to Beckley to care for his ailing father. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Karen Teresa Jones. Their bond was deep, and their time together was a blessing that left lasting memories for all who knew them.

Lou was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen; his siblings, Deborah (Denny) Roberts, Larry (Rebecca) Powell, and Cynthia Williams; and brothers-in-law, Robert Stokes, Lorraine Jones Jr., Charles Jones, and sister-in-law, Carolyn Moore.

Lou leaves to cherish his memory his loving siblings, Gladys Stokes of the Bronx, NY, Mary McCray of Manhattan, NY, Michelle McCray of the Bronx, NY; Brenda (Darrell) Nixon of Jacksonville, FL; brother-in-law, Brian (Juanima) Jones of Beckley, WV and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

James Lewis “Lou” McCray will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his family. His life was a testament to compassion, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love.

Visitation will be 11:00AM Friday, September 19, 2025 at the Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor Chapel 748 S. Fayette St. Beckley. Burial will follow at 12:30PM in Greenwood Memorial Park, Beckley.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.