Emily Lauren Ray

Emily Lauren Ray, of Beebe, age 20, went home to see her Lord and Savior on July 2, 2016. She was born on May 17, 1996 to Mary Beth Ray-Shearer; and was reborn again in 2002, when she gave her life to Christ, running her race with all her might. She attended First Baptist Church in Beebe. Emily came into this world like a whirl wind–a baldheaded baby who grew a headful of curly hair. She had corrective casts on both of her feet, yet she ignored the obstacles and learned to walk with determination and purpose. This drive for life continued as she got older, for she embraced every day as if it were her last. Emily's nature was like a kaleidoscope-brilliant colors of energy, spontaneity, and vibrancy–changing constantly with the desire to be successful and a heart filled with love. She was everyone's best friend, a hugger, a dreamer, and always on the go. Emily was a rescuer-of both animals and people. She was an organ donor, and as an act of pure love, she will help over 40 people to have a better quality of life. Emily loved the outdoors, her boots, and the ability to hold her own with the guys; she was a redneck to the core who loved to go muddin' and wasn't shy about sharing what was on her mind. She played hard, she loved hard, and she worked hard. Emily worked as a sales associate for Storm Pros and enjoyed the excitement of climbing roofs–and she was great at it! Emily had a smile for everyone; she loved people and never met a stranger. She loved her family, and the greatest love of her life was her Papaw whom she adored. Her Nana was her mentor, a Godly woman who taught her many things. Her laughter and smile were motivated by joy and love. Emily loved the Lord, and she would not want us to mourn for her, but to pick up our cross and run our own race to the best of our ability. Her wish for us would be as simple as the ABC's–to admit–believe–and confess that Jesus is our Lord, and to live our lives serving Him without hesitation or shame. As a firecracker shouting into the night, let your light shine unto all men, celebrating the gift of salvation and eternal life. Survivors include her mother, Mary Beth Ray-Shearer (Larry) of Conway; brothers, Brandon and Jonathan Ray of Beebe; and grandparents, Jerry and Linda Ray of Beebe. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the youth group at First Baptist Church in Beebe. Visitation will be Tuesday night from 6:00-8:00 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe. Funeral will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at First Baptist Church in Beebe officiated by Brother C.W. Blood. Burial will follow at Antioch Cemetery.