Deacon Ray Bernard Camel "Bishop"
Born: April 23, 1960
Died: December 6, 2024

Proceeded in Death:
⁃ Mother:     Mattie B. Davis Camel
⁃ Father: Eddie L. Camel, Sr.
⁃ Sisters: Geneva S. Jones, Louise S. Mack
⁃ Brothers: Charles Billington, Sr., Eddie Camel, Jr.
He leaves to mourn his passing:
⁃ A loving & devoted sister and brother in law Jeanie & Robert Daniels
⁃ A loving & devoted brother Felton L. Camel
⁃ Sister & Brother in law Dorothy & Bruce Henderson

• Ray's Legacy

Ray did not have biological children of his own, but he had a deep love for his nieces and nephews. Known for his playful, bossy ways, they often tried to escape his demanding ways, but there was no doubt about the love they all shared. Growing up alongside his older nieces and nephews, Ray formed special bonds with some of them, and they were always there for him, offering support and companionship whenever he needed it. He will be deeply missed by them all. Among those closest to him were Sheila Jones Cole, Steven Jones, Jennifer Billington Gissoni, Janice Mack, Lana Daniels Zachman, Dana Daniels, Jay Daniels, Maisia and Juwan Bracey, and Jayla Williams.

Ray was also blessed to have people in his life who stood by him with unwavering support and understanding. Special thanks go to:
• Dorothy Robinson (Mama Dot)
• Ronnea Witherspoon
• Paula G. Williams
• Karen Bristol
• Edna Curry
• Jackie Pollock
• Kathy Griffin
• Velora Loper
Willie Mae Williams
• Pastor Alvin Baker
• Pastor Phillip Jackson
• Pastor Keith McDuffie

Though Ray wasn't always right, his heart was always in the right place, and he was quick to lend a helping hand. He had a special love for the elderly and often went out of his way to assist them. Older women, in particular, seemed to adore Ray, with his affectionate and respectful nature- winning their hearts. One especially meaningful relationship was with "Ma Zeff," whose face would light up whenever Ray entered the room, affectionately calling her by name. Ray was so beloved that he was embraced and adopted as family by his brother-in-law Robert's relatives, a testament to his magnetic personality and generous spirit.

Ray also had a unique connection with preachers, often befriending them and, in his signature way, trying to boss them around. It was remarkable how they treated him like a brother or even a son, despite his seniority in age—a fact he wasn't too thrilled about me sharing.

From the age of eight, Ray had a passion for three things: running around with the home mission society, learning how to line hymns and pray, and working at the funeral home with Mr. Charles T. Hall. He & Rev.Herring would do devotion as young boys, Ray would line the hymn and Rev.Herring (Stack) would pray. He had exceptional gifts from God, particularly his anointed singing voice and his remarkable ability to conduct funeral services with dignity and compassion. He took great pride in comforting grieving families and sharing his stories, which touched countless lives. Many people would attend services just to hear Ray sing or speak. One of his favorite sayings, shared at the end of every story, was, "Sow good seeds; because you're going to reap just what you sow." There's no doubt that Ray sowed many good seeds during his life, leaving a legacy of love and faith that pleased God.

Growing up, Ray shared a special bond with his siblings. After their brother Eddie passed, it was Felton, Ray, and their sister Jeanie. Ray often tried to boss his sister around, but he knew better—he lovingly referred to her as "his boss." Together, they shared an unbreakable bond, and she proudly says, "I am my brother's keeper." Ray also had so much fun with Jeanie's husband, Robert, who he thought could do no wrong. Ray enjoyed the foolishness Robert brought. Ray was like one of theirs and everyone knew it.

Ray had a deep love for Mt. Olive and his church family, but he also enjoyed "church hopping," where he'd visit different church services.

Lastly, a heartfelt thanks to Brother Eric A. Brown, who never gave up on Ray and never left him behind. Ray loved and respected you as though you were his own son. Your steadfast presence in his life brought him immense joy and laughter. May God bless you as you carry on without Ray.

Ray always said he wanted to be sent off in style, and today, we honor that wish. No one deserves it more than Ray, a man who touched so many lives.

Go on, Ray, and take your rest. We know you're in a better place where you can sing all day long. Holy Holy Holy!