Johnny Leonardo McCray, Sr.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF JOHNNY LEONARDO MCCRAY, SR 1934 – 2019 Johnny McCray was born November 10, 1934, in Madison, Florida, to the late Freddie “Walter” McCray and the late Dorena “Dora” McCray. At a young age, he and his family moved to the city of Pompano Beach. He is a proud graduate of Blanche Ely High School, Bethune-Cookman College (now University) with a B.S. degree in Education, and Howard University School of Law where he earned his Juris Doctorate Degree. He was honored to be a veteran of the United States Air Force where he served for eight years in the U.S. and abroad. In the early 1956, Johnny married his high school sweetheart, Hattie Crockett. To this union three children were born: Johnny Jr., Cassandra, and Lawal Sr. Johnny was active in the Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Pompano Beach serving as a Sunday School teacher for many years until his illness in 2004. He accepted Christ Jesus as his Savior at a young age while attending Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Pompano Beach. He was a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Prince Hall Free & Accepted Masons (Lodge 409), and the Pompano NAACP as treasurer. Johnny wore many hats: Grandfather, Father, professor (affectionately known as Dr. McCray), entrepreneur, and community activist. Along with being a strong loving father and grandfather, he was a longtime college professor at Florida Memorial College (now university). Johnny and Hattie opened a community store, bail bond business and he also became a licensed real estate agent. He proudly served civically having sat for several years on the City of Pompano Employee Review Board and Community Development Board. Johnny’ favorite hobbies where reading, watching the news, working, and educating others. Additionally, his greatest joy was playing with his five grandchildren whom he adored. Siblings preceding him in death: Charlie “Tugg” McCray, Willie C. McCray Sr., Dorothy McCray. Left to cherish the beautiful memories of Johnny are: Son-Johnny McCray, Jr (Karen); Daughter Cassandra McCray and Son-Lawal McCray, Sr (Maralice); Grandchildren- Lauren McCray-Echefu (Uche), Johnny McCray III (Stacia); Arlen McCray; Lamiah McCray and Lawal McCray Jr.

Johnny Leonardo McCray, Sr.

November 10, 1934 - June 30, 2021