It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jesse Phalan Ray, who died peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 17, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 34 years old.
Born on September 14, 1991, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Jesse spent the majority of his life in Coloma, Michigan, the community he so dearly loved.
Jesse was known for his unwavering passion for sports. While he enjoyed watching NASCAR and rooting for the Oakland Raiders, his true athletic devotion was to his hometown teams, the Coloma Comets. He dedicated countless hours volunteering his time, coaching both basketball and baseball teams, and could often be found working the concession stand during high school football games.
A beloved member of the community, Jesse was a friend to everyone he met and will be profoundly missed by his family and the many people he touched.
Jesse was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Jack and Teresa Ray, and his sister, Rebecca.
He is survived by his brothers, Josh and Jay; his sister, Norma; his nieces, Jessica, Renee, Robin, Summer, and Samantha; and his nephews, Corey, David, and Alex.
A memorial service to celebrate Jesse’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Coloma Bible Church on 211 Wilson Street. A luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jesse’s memory to the Coloma Community School’s Athletic Department. Those wishing to leave an online message for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Memorial Service
Coloma Bible Church
Saturday, January 31, 2026
2:00 PM
211 Wilson Street
Coloma, MI 49038
Posted On: Friday, January 23, 2026 4:01 PM
