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Ned McCray Obituary
Ned Lee McCray, age 94 of Tinley Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on June 27, 2023. Ned was raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduation from high school, he enlisted in the Army Air Force. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
After his service, he came to Chicago and enrolled at Roosevelt University. While completing his education, he starred in basketball, and met his future wife, Christine. Ned later attended the University of Chicago and earned a Master's Degree.
Ned and Christine were married on November 2, 1952. Ned worked for the Chicago Public Schools throughout their marriage, and became a highly regarded and respected principal. The highlight of his professional career was his tenure at Simeon High School of Chicago.
Ned cherished his faculty, staff and students at Simeon. During the late 70s and throughout the 80s, Simeon's athletic program excelled. Several teams won numerous City Championships and a State Basketball Championship.
Upon retirement, Ned and Christine traveled around the world. They visited some of the great cities of the world, including Warsaw, Sidney, Paris and Rome. Also, during Ned's retirement, he was a frequent contributor to the local daily newspaper's "Letter to the Editor" section. All of the articles can be found in his published book, Still Preaching and Teaching. Ned was a jazz enthusiast and often liked to whistle with or without music. Ned was also a Past President of the Retired Teachers Association. Ned is survived by his wife, Christine, of 70 years; his children, Kevin (Sondra) McCray and Sheila McCray; his five grandchildren, LaKeisha McCray, Angela (Michael) McClinton, Samantha (Dion) McDonald, Kameron Stewart, and Savannah Stewart, his siblings, Limuel (Delores) Mack and Verna White; and his nephews Kenneth Mack, Bruce (Adrienne) Montgomery and Rodney (Jackie).
Funeral Arrangements are being hosted by A.R. Leak & Sons, 1035 Lincoln Hwy route 30 Matteson IL, Monday July 10. Wake 10am, Service 11am followed by the Burial/Ceremony 2pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W Hoff Rd. Elwood, IL. Repass 4pm at A.R. Leak & Sons Matteson, IL
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Memories and Condolences
for Ned McCray
Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.
Dr. Sharon A. Simeon
July 1, 2025
Mr. McCray will always be remembered as a huge part of the Simeon High School legacy. He was a very kind and wise gentleman. Sincerely, Dr. Sharon A. Simeon
Kathleen Melia
July 3, 2024
I will never forget Ned, He was one-of-a-kind and I can only imagine what it would have been like to know him when WE were both young. I am happy I got to know him even though it was late in life for us.
Rest easy, Ned !!! Sister Kathleen Melia, OSF
Joseph Kerke
July 8, 2023
Mr. McCray led us "warehouse people"at he old Simeon building (a former Kroger warehouse). He was dedicated to the school, staff, and students,leaving us a legacy of a true professional. My sincere condolences to the family.
Joseph Kerke, Simeon Vocational HS chemistry teacher (1976-83)
Harriet and Karen Washington
July 8, 2023
We are deeply saddened at Ned's passing. We always looked forward to Ned & Christine's visits.
We would talk about everything from politics to computers. And we always had something to laugh about. He would have to search for red beans, to take back to the family in Chicago. He always encouraged others in whatever their talents. Ned and Christine were always a joy to be around. We will miss him greatly. His legacy will always continue in the family.
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Esau Lolis, Jr.
July 7, 2023
The love and generosity you shared with us will never be forgotten. Rest in heavenly peace.
Angela mcmiller class of 83
July 7, 2023
Ned was a great man I M a Simeon student of his love to his wife n family Simeon forever
Sharon A. Simeon
July 7, 2023
You have our deepest condolences. I will always have fond memories of Mr. McCray and all he did for the students at Simeon.
Sincerely,
Sharon A. Simeon and Family
Deborah J. Mitchell
July 7, 2023
So grateful for the opportunity to work with him at Simeon Vocational High School. He was my first principal in Chicago Public Schools. Praying for the family.
Lora Jette Simeon Alumni Association
July 7, 2023
My condolences to the family, friends and Simeon family of our beloved Mr. McCray. He was our Rockstar at Simeon and still once he retired. He stayed connected to the Alumni Association, knew our names, and continued to encourage us and the younger generation. He will truly be missed.
Sr. Kathleen Melia, osf
July 7, 2023
My dear friend Ned was so kind and generous to me. We were fellow writers of letters to the editor especially in the Chicago Tribune. So often Ned would send me a gift in the mail and it would be a wonderful edible treat. He spared no expense. Goodbye, Ned. I will pray for your swift entry into heaven. Thanks for everything. Sr. Kathleen
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