Lester Ray Young

Lester Ray Young, 60, went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 11th at his home in Florence, MS. He spent his last moments surrounded by loved ones after battling pancreatic cancer for 4 ½ years (diagnosed August 7th, 2020). 

Ray was born on August 8, 1964, in Morton, MS. He spent his younger years in Polkville learning important life lessons from his grandfather. Ray moved to Jackson in 1969, attending school at Pearl, Brandon, and Brandon Academy. He played football as a kicker, running back, and linebacker throughout his high school career and graduated from Brandon Academy in 1984. 

After graduating high school, Ray went to work in the oil field while everyone else went on a cruise or went to college. After spending some time as a roughneck and then working at the steel mill, Ray began his career at Kansas City Southern in 1998 and worked there the rest of his life. Ray, known affectionately by coworkers as “Boom Boom”, worked as a conductor and loved every minute of it. 

Ray had a deep love for his family, especially his beloved son, Cody Ray. They shared countless cherished moments together, from teaching Cody Ray to drive equipment and work the land to fishing & skiing trips on the river. Whether they were casting lines for bass and brim or simply enjoying a hot meal with friends, Ray found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

A man of many passions, Ray had a special place in his heart for Australian Shepherds, whose loyalty and energy matched his own. He could often be found riding his Harley-Davidson with friends, the wind in his beard and freedom on the open road. At home, he was most comfortable in his signature cut-off jeans and pearl snap shirts, a reflection of his relaxed and genuine spirit.

When it came to food, Ray was a master of the kitchen, crafting homestyle meals that rivaled the best. His cooking was legendary, and his dishes were a source of comfort and pride for everyone lucky enough to share a meal with him.

Ray was a tough-love, no-nonsense kind of man, unafraid to speak his mind and always true to himself. His wisdom, humor, and unshakable authenticity will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Ray is survived by his son, Cody Ray Young; his fraternal twin brother Lesley Carl Young (Nancy); half-step brother Jake Young; half-sister Cheryl Middleton (BJ); Nephews: Christian Dean Young (Christine), Jacob Young (Camryn), Beau Brewer (Meagan); Nieces: Anna Caitlyn Young, Katy Young (William), Shelby Young, Michelle Work; Aunt Francis Purvis-Ross (Pete); Aunt Betty Purvis; Cousins: Joy Ross, Jill Ross, Susan Purvis, Sherry Purvis, Sammy Purvis; Numerous great-nephews & great nieces.

Ray is preceded in death by his mother, Alice Virginia Young; Father Carl Ray Young; Uncle James William Purvis; Uncle John Clifton Purvis; Cousin Tony Purvis.

Ray's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his lifelong friends and loved ones who came together to care for him in his final months. A special thank you to Bill and Coleen McKay, Kevin and Terra (T) Baylot, Tim McCoy, Teresa Vance, and Terri McMinn for their kindness, support, and unwavering compassion during this time. 

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, at Chancellor in Florence. Friends and family are invited to come together to honor his memory, share stories, and celebrate the remarkable man he was.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (panCAN), or simply take a moment to enjoy a warm meal with a friend, or a ride under the open sky in his memory.

Rest easy, Ray. You will forever be loved and remembered.