In Loving Memory of Ray Crumbie, “Big Ray” / “Ray J” A Gentle Giant Gone Too Soon
Detroit is a city of strength, resilience, and heart—but every now and then, tragedy hits so deeply that it feels as though the entire community stops in disbelief. That is the feeling that now surrounds the heartbreaking loss of Ray Crumbie, lovingly known by many as “Big Ray” or “Ray J.” He was one of two lives taken far too soon in a double fatal shooting on Detroit’s west side.
On Monday night, authorities responded to a call at a dispensary near Puritan and Linwood. What began as a normal evening turned into a devastating tragedy. When officers arrived, they discovered that two individuals had been fatally shot during what is believed to have been a robbery. The suspects fled the scene and remain at large, leaving behind grief, fear, and a community searching for answers. Detroit Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to help bring justice and closure to the families affected.
But beyond the headlines — beyond the sirens and tape — there was Ray.
Who Big Ray Was to So Many
Ray was more than a name in a news report.
He was a presence—the kind of person you felt before you even saw him walk in.
His size earned him the nickname “Big Ray,” but it was his heart that people remembered most. He had a way of making others feel seen, respected, and valued. Whether it was a joke to lighten the mood, a shoulder to lean on, or advice given with love and honesty, Ray was someone people could count on.
He carried his life experiences with pride, wisdom, and humility.
To his friends, he was a brother.
To his family, he was strength.
To his community, he was a familiar warm face—someone who lifted the room simply by being there.
A Loss That Cuts Deep
There are losses that are sudden, and there are losses that shake the spirit. Losing Ray feels like both.
This wasn’t supposed to happen.
Not to him.
Not like this.
It feels unfair, heavy, and senseless. The tragic violence that claimed his life has left loved ones questioning, remembering, grieving, and trying to make sense of something there may never be clear answers for.
But what remains now is the impact Ray left behind:
- The laughter he brought
- The stories that will be told for years
- The memories imprinted on the hearts of everyone who knew him
And those memories are powerful.
What Ray Would Want
Ray lived in a city that knows struggle, pain, and perseverance. He understood life from the ground up.
If he could speak now, he would tell his people:
- Stick together.
- Love harder.
- Don’t let anger take the place of healing.
- Don’t let his name be forgotten in silence.
He would want the ones he cared about to keep living, to keep pushing forward, and to honor him not with bitterness — but with strength and unity.
Seeking Justice, Seeking Peace
His family, friends, and the city of Detroit deserve clarity, accountability, and justice. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detroit Police. Speaking up is not just about solving a case—it’s about honoring Ray’s life by making sure the truth is brought forward.
This isn’t just another incident.
This was someone loved.
Someone important.
Someone irreplaceable.
Rest Peacefully, Big Ray
Your presence blessed this world.
Your impact will live on in every person you touched.
You deserved safety, joy, and long years to continue living your story.
We will remember you—your laughter, your kindness, your strength, your love.
Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.
Rest in peace, Ray Crumbie.
Forever “Big Ray.” Forever “Ray J.” Forever loved. 🕊️💔
