Gilbert Ray Eli

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23:1.

Gilbert Ray Eli transitioned Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at his residence in Saginaw, MI after a yearlong battle with cancer.

Ray was born November 10, 1951 in Pineville, LA to Gilbert and Irma Brooks Eli. He grew up in Alexandria, LA and attended Alexandria Public Schools. He was baptized at an early age at the Antioch Baptist Church where he attended Sunday School and sang in the choir. After relocating to Saginaw, MI, he received his high school diploma from Saginaw Adult Education and was a member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Ray was in the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam and was honorably discharged. He was employed with GM-Nodular and Grey Iron Foundry and retired after more than 30 years.

Ray's passion was cooking and he loved sharing his delicious creations. He also had a beautiful voice and loved to use it. Music and singing were always a part of him. And last, he was known for his clean cars. His custom pinstriped vehicles had to be spotless and his clothes had to match.

His girls were his pride and joy, and he was so proud of them. He loved to FaceTime with his grandchildren and hearing them call him “granddaddy” was music to his ears. Ray looked forward to the family Saturday group calls filled with love, laughter and prayers.

He leaves to cherish his memories: daughters Deandrea Smith (Saginaw, MI), Cheresia (Jason) Scott (Belleville, MI), Chelena (James) Bell (Lansing, MI). Grandchildren: JaVon, Jada, Chloe and Chase Scott, Elijah and Jaiden Bell and baby Bell due April 2022. Siblings: Emmerson Barrett Eli, Frederick Douglas (Pat) Eli, Dorothy Baty, and Garrie Ann Eli Joshua all of Alexandria, LA, Joyce (Robert) Smith (Gonzales, LA), Mary Walker (Shreveport, LA), Helen (Joe) King, (Saginaw, MI), Dora Lee Penn and Jessie (Grant) Pierce both of California. Aunts: Edith Brooks (Saginaw, MI) and Vera Brooks (Natchitoches, LA), many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Christopher Roy Eli and Dorothy Eli. 

The family would like to express a special thank you to all of the healthcare staff who supported him, and Ivan E. Phillips, and the Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel.

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