I am the youngest daughter of Lillie and as her 1yr is coming up and her children…… this is where I stopped a year ago. Now it has been 2yrs plus and it still is hard to accept that her beautiful soul has transitioned. I have learned to take such pride and gratitude in the fact my mother’s love was so pure, you could hardly tell the difference between her speaking to her children and a perfect stranger that needs some encouragement. While some may have been jealous of such a giving heart, it has inspired me instead. It also gave me the most amazing blue print to “unconditional love”. With great love comes great sacrifice and I am overjoyed that your peace has come momma, loving you forever. - Baby Girl

It was fitting that our remembrance of you last night included candles, Lillie. You were much like a warm light in the darkness. Your strength, infectious joy , compassion and love glowed in your smile. You shared that smile with so many of us. May God's light now wrap you in his joy forever. We miss you Dear Lady.

I just loved me some Lillie. I will forever remember you Lillie and the little FB messages of Good Morning. I'm so sorry we didn't get a chance to spend more time. My heart is SO sad and I just received this information a minute ago. My condolences to the family, we have lost a True Star, and Heaven has just gain the Universe. I know you will be free of this worlds suffering, but know Lillie, you will be missed dearly.

I knew Lillie Ray for quite a number of years through our membership in NAMI Hampton/Newport News and she was always the most loving, thoughtful person. No matter what she was going through, she was ready to help and listen to others who needed someone to understand what they were going through. She helped many through her "In Our Own Voice" presentations. Rest in peace, Lillie my dear. You lived a beautiful life!!!

Lillie and I presented, together, in NAMI’s In Our Own Voice program for several years. And no matter how many times I heard her tell her story, I was always reminded of how amazing she was-how much she had overcome, how many demons she had pinned down, and how thankful she was for each and every day. Those of us who fight for our minds can easily slip into self-pity. We often lose focus of the good things in our lives. But not Lillie. She was different. She led by example. She lived her recovery. She demonstrated to me that I could find a purpose and meaning in my illness. She didn’t let her illness define her and she gave herself to sharing her story of hope. To me, there is no higher calling. She so inspired me that I continue working with NAMI even though I have moved out of state. She changed my life and I give her a lot of the credit for where I am today.
Lillie-you will always be an inspiration to me. I feel your presence every time I speak. You squared up to the tests you were given and you passed them all. It comforts me knowing that the pain is over. I miss you, my dear friend. Until I see you again, enjoy the view. I know being an angel will feel very familiar,... you have been one for a long time.

Where to start? Lillie Ray was the softest heart I came to know inside NAMI Hampton/Newport News and out. In 2008, Lillie, Evelyn Gay, myself and some I have overlooked took the original training to become Connection Facilitators for our affiliate. I know for me (and perhaps all involved) it was life changing where we sincerely moved into the recovery stage where "Change was Possible". Later that year or perhaps the next, the three of us were chosen to become NAMI Virginia State Connection Trainers where we flew to Missouri for another life event. We (Lillie Ray, Evelyn Gay and I) began training as many of our peers as possible to carry the torch forward. At the time I did not realize what we were accomplishing, but looking back, it was an honor and a privilege to be in the company of these two beautiful, talented and caring people. Rest in peace my friend.

Lillie Ray personified the words “Love” and “Inspiration.” She overcame addiction and mental health issues to be a beacon for NAMI’s In Our Own Voice program. She shared her story of recovery and advocacy, letting hundreds know they were not alone. Like most of us, she didn’t have much but was always eager to give to family, friends, and NAMI. Her spirit lives on. Let NAMI share in her memory. – Ann Catherine Braxton

NAMI is missing a ‘Shining Star’ and a Faithful Friend! Not certain of the exact date when she began her volunteer services or in what capacity, doesn’t matter. Our Hampton/ Newport News affiliate was fortunate to have her! She was willing to do whatever was asked of her and many benefitted near and far from her smile, soft spoken reassurances and her encouraging words. Knowledge was powerful and she shared it! NAMI needed her, but God needed her more! Love You!

Lilly inspired me even though she had health concerns she always called me and asked how I was doing. She just had a heart of gold and the things that she was able to do for Nami are so outstanding I I wish I thought I could live up to her example.

We begin a journey that sometimes takes twists and turns that are so unexpected!
My friend, you were always one that was willing to guide paths for others. When I first met you I called you “my poster child” but also for others needing the love, a hug and encouragement that made things better. You made so many lives better just by knowing you!
You touched my daughter’s life when no one else seemed to be able to reach her and continued that relationship for many years.
You will forever be in our hearts and we will miss you forever!

Lillie has always been a “Ray of Sunshine “ Your smile was infectious and it brightened up a room and always made me feel better. I thank God for allowing our paths to cross. I’ll forever hold you near. May your Family rejoice for being returned to Our Father. May the Lord Comfort all of you during this time of bereavement