Obituary: Thomas ‘Tommy’ Jefferson Ray, 60, of Custer

February 24, 2025

Tommy Ray

Thomas Jefferson Ray, known affectionately as Tommy, passed away on February 21, 2025, at the age of 60 in Grand Rapids. Born on November 23, 1964, in Lansing, Tommy was a lifelong resident of Michigan and proudly embraced his Native American heritage.

Tommy enjoyed his time as a restaurant cook, having spent many years delighting patrons at Riley’s Rendezvous and Ruby Creek Tavern.

An avid outdoorsman, Tommy relished in fishing and hunting, activities that allowed him to connect with nature and his heritage. He also cherished time spent with his beloved dog, Chase, exploring the outdoors and enjoying peaceful moments.

Tommy’s spirit and legacy will live on through the memories he leaves with his loved ones and the positive impact he had on his community.

He is survived by his significant other, Andrea Niemiec; his brother, Ricky (Karen) Chism; his daughter, Heather; grandchildren, Dylan and Lorelei; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Bobbie and Frances Ray, and his sister, Julie Ruiz.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, with visitation beginning at noon.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tommy’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause he deeply cared about.

Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.

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Eats & Drinks

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