Dee Dee Ray

DeeDee Ray, 74, of Long Beach, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, February 28, 2022, in Gulfport.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Ray; her parents, Margaret Cook and Daniel Cook; and her brother, Bob Cook.

Survivors include her children, Kim Marmalich, Debbie and Don Brandon, and Dale Marmalich; her grandchildren, Dustin and Hanna Marmalich and Tyler Brandon; her great-grandsons, Isaac Jeansonne and Dalton Marmalich; and her sister, Margaret “Lovie” Renfroe. She is also survived by special relatives and friends who are close to her heart.

DeeDee was a devout catholic who cherished her church and all of the friends that she met along the way. She embodied God’s unconditional love in its purest form to everyone in her life, touching the entire Gulf Coast with her hugs and outgoing personality. Her many years in the educational system made her a beloved child advocate. She never met a stranger and never let the opportunity for conversation pass her by. The ability to give was her strongest attribute, making her ever aware of the needs of those around her. There wasn’t anyone she overlooked when it came to giving her time, friendship, encouragement, and wisdom. God and family were the foundation of DeeDee’s life, and it is certain her life touched many here in her local community.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 4, 2022, from 9 - 10 am at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 720 E Beach Blvd, Long Beach.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am in the church.  Interment will be in Long Beach City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Music Ministry of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 720 E Beach Blvd, Long Beach, MS 39560.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is serving the family.