Raymond Ellerbe, 67, was born to the late Hillian and Mary Ellerbe in Detroit on September 21, 1955. He passed away surrounded by family and friends on May 9, 2023 after several years of facing health problems including heart disease and his recent diagnosis of lung cancer. He is survived by his loving and supportive family including his wife, Sharon, and daughters Ashley (Steven Hartman) and Mary. He also leaves sister-in-law (Lisa), nieces (Dana, Adrienne, Amanda, Hannah), and nephew (Justin) to cherish his memory.

Raymond always had a way of making people smile within his heart. He had a natural ability to “know people”. He made those around him feel special without any discrimination or judgment. He was a proud and fiercely strong man who knew the value of hard work and determination. He retired after working for General Motors for 30 years. Over his entire life, he gained a network of support from loved ones and friends and made a bond to last forever. Ray used to give the analogy that life is like a train ride, and you’re the conductor of your own train. Passengers all have different reasons for wanting to be on your train, and the length of the ride always varied. Once Raymond’s train came to its final destination, it was clear that the train was filled with passengers, and most were in it for the long haul, sticking with him until the very end.  

Despite his complex and detailed heart, Ray was a simple man of routine. He enjoyed going golfing, fishing, and relaxing on the couch watching T.V. He woke up every day and did what he had to do to keep the household going.

If there’s one thing that Raymond loved more than his hobbies, it was his family. He was married to Sharon for37 years and built a beautiful home with her. The light of his life was without a shadow of a doubt their two daughters. Throughout their lives, Raymond was able to make such a big impact on the girls. For as much strength as Ashley and Mary have, it does not come close to matching that of Raymond’s. Mary and Ashley both can say with confidence that no man compares regarding the tenderness and love that Raymond gave as a father. 

Raymond’s qualities spoke for themselves, but the ones that always stood out were his love and his strength. Life doesn’t always deal you the best hand for the game, but Ray always made every effort to play and succeed. It is life lessons like living yours to the fullest that Raymond lived by every day.

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