In Loving Memory of Ella Mae Ray Beverly

Ella Mae Ray Beverly, age 89, peacefully went to be with the Lord on July 15, 2026.

Ella was born on May 23, 1937, in Rock Run Station, Alabama, to the late Charles and Julia Ray. In the early 1940s, she moved with her family to Akron, Ohio, where she attended Akron Public Schools.

Ella was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She was employed by Chrysler before later working at Broadview Heights Mental Health Center, where she retired after many years of faithful service.

Ella found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved fishing, cooking, knitting, collecting Betty Boop memorabilia, and, above all, spending time with her beloved family. Her kindness, strength, and loving spirit touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Julia Ray; her son, Willie Mathis; her brothers, Milburn Cantrell, Samuel Ray, John Ray, Willie Ray, Reginald Ray, and Edward Ray; her sisters, Betty Keith, Patricia Penson, and Jocelyn Kelker; and her beloved dog, Kilo.

Ella leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Deborah (Michael) Holmes, Gwendolyn Taylor, Raymond (Deborah) Mathis, Walter (Patrice) Mathis, Johnny (Belinda) Mathis, Teresa Mathis, and Tony (Barbara) Mathis. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, brothers, sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Ella’s legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her family will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.