We will honor the memory, but most importantly begin the celebration of life for Cecelia Alicia McCray, who was born on January 15, 1949, and called to her eternal home on March 20, 2025. Born in the heart of Alcoa, Tennessee, Cecelia's journey on this earth concluded in the loving community of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. She was a beacon of light and a testament to faith, having fought a valiant battle against cancer, her spirit neverwavered, and her joy never diminished.

Cecelia, known affectionately by those who held her dear, was a woman of substantial faith and love. She tread upon this earth for a season, leaving footprints of compassion and kindness. Her life was a living example of the Scripture, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23). She embodied this passage through her unwavering commitment to serving God, her cherished family, and all those she encountered.

Preceded in death by her late spouse Tommy Gene McCray, her parents, Arvesta and Virgina Roberta George Dean, and her brothers, David, Curtis, Donovon, and Phillip Dean. Cecelia's legacy is carried forward by her loving sister, Jean McGhee. Sisters in law, Mary Helen and Erma Dean. Brothers in law, Vernice Washington. Bonus grandson, DeMario Knuckles. Nephew, Marcus Washington.

Her spirit lives on through her devoted daughters, Shelia (William) Knuckles IV and Traci (Gregory) Thomas Jr, and the joy of her life, her grandchildren Kiara, Darius (Zabrenna), Kennedy, Sophia, Will V, Benjamin, and Lia, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren Za'Riiyah, I'Zaiah, Mekhi, Iris, Knovah, and Massai.

Cecelia's home was ever welcoming, and in it, she embraced special children Christina and Nathaniel Stephenson. She also leaves her brothers Griffin, Dennis, and Kenneth (Audrey) Dean, alongside her sisters Anita Washington, Joan Scudder, Jennifer, Inger and her sister in-law Evelyn, will hold dear the memories of her unwavering support and boundless love. A multitude of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. A special niece Freda Dean, and special great nieces Qiana Dean and Natiya Curtis.

Our dear Cecelia was a lifelong learner who, with determination and grace, completed her education at Pellissippi State Community College. There, she earned an associate’s degree in accounting and later acquired her certification as a CNA. She navigated the world of accounting up and down the East Coast before finding joy in the camaraderie and purpose of the factory environment.

Her passions were manifold, yet all were underpinned by her love for the Lord. Cecelia's melodious voice uplifted many a soul in the choir, and her wisdom guided the youth in Sunday School. A mentor to many, she relished in sharing the Gospel through music and teachings and found peace in the contemplation of the Scriptures. Cecelia savored life's simple pleasures, from enjoying a hearty meal to cheering on her beloved football and basketball teams—the UT and Kansas City Chiefs.

Her commitment to her community was evident in her involvement with the Cherry Street Church of God. There, she was not just a member but a cornerstone, a wellspring of encouragement and faith to all those blessed to know her.

In the words of a great evangelist, “My home is in Heaven. I'm just traveling through this world." Cecelia's journey through this world was marked by her unwavering faith, her boundless love, and her ceaseless dedication to her family and God. Though her presence in our midst will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is now at home with her Heavenly Father.

Let us carry forward the light that Cecelia Alicia McCray shone so brightly in her time among us. May her memory continue to inspire us to live with purpose, to love without reservation, and to serve with all our hearts until we meet her again in glory. Amen.