Marie McCray of Roxbury, Massachusetts, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, and friend, entered eternal rest on January 20, 2026.

With heavy hearts, her family releases her into heaven’s beautiful gates, taking comfort in God’s promise that this farewell is only a temporary parting. Marie has completed her earthly journey and now rests in eternal glory. Born on September 7, 1945, in Kenly, North Carolina, to the late Ella Louise Hinnant.

Marie—known as “Moma” to her children and “Peanut” to her friends—spent her formative years in the Johnston County School System, attending the Richard B. Harrison School in Selma, North Carolina.

On September 21, 1964, Marie married the late Joseph Rogers McCray in Kenly, North Carolina. They later relocated briefly to Greenville, South Carolina.

By 1969, Marie courageously joined the Great Migration, moving her family from North Carolina to Boston, Massachusetts, in pursuit of greater opportunities for her children. Marie worked at Armstrong Industries, and Old Mr. Boston Distillery, before beginning a long and dedicated career with the Boston Public School System, where she served faithfully until her retirement in 2019.

Determined and resilient, she proudly earned
her high school diploma through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Education. Marie also was a graduate of the Tech Goes Home program, where after completing her coursework, she received a computer.

Known for her dependability, strong work ethic, and quiet strength, Marie lived with grace and purpose. Though small in stature and a woman of few words, her feisty spirit and warm grin left a lasting impression. She cherished her daytime “stories,” especially General Hospital, which she watched faithfully—often with grandchildren by her side. She also enjoyed puzzles and doodling at her kitchen table.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Adrian Mark McCray, grandchildren DeWayne (twin), Brandon, and Christopher McCray (twins), and her brother, Arthur Hinnant.

She leaves behind, to honor her memory, her children: Michelle (Chelle) Valerie McCray of Alexandria, VA; Joseph (Tiger) Bernard McCray of Roxbury, MA; Kimberly (Kim) Lynne McCray of Wilson, NC; James McCray of Somerville, MA; and Darlene (DeeDee) Dionne McCray of Charlestown, MA. She is also survived by her siblings: Gilbert Hinnant of Killeen, TX; Joanne Hinnant of Alexandria, VA; Tyrone Hinnant of Augusta, GA; and Frances Hinnant-Wingfield of Alexandria, VA.

Additional loved ones include: her brothers-in-law: Andrew McCray (Pearl) of Wilson, NC, David McCray of Mount Rainier, MD, and Roland McCray (Jean) of Bowie, MD. Grandchildren: Brian, Danielle, Martin, Eldridge, Barbara Marie (twin), Winston, Denaya, Marques, Hakeem, Samantha, and Danielle, and sixteen great-grandchildren. Her Aunts: Barbara Hinnant of Upper Darby, PA, and Verna Walden of Smithfield, NC, and her Uncle Ernie Hinnant of Kenly, NC. Her nephews: Brandon Barnes, Levi Hinnant; her nieces Keturah Means, Shandel Hinnant, and Aliyah Wingfield; and her longtime special friend, Sam Ingrim.

Marie also leaves behind her “bonus children”: Rob, Melrose, Stephanie, Carlita, Melanie, Dwayne, William, Cryselle, Mabel, her bonus son and nephew, Brandon, as well as Carla, Mark, and Lenae; children of her late best friend, Juanita Peterson along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Her memory will forever live in our hearts. Her love will continue through our lives. Her spirit will remain with us always.

Visitation will be held at the Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS on Saturday, February 7th from 10-11AM. Funeral Service to begin at 11AM. Interment at Oak Lawn Cemetery. Relatives and friends invited.