Mr. Ellis Witcher

Ellis Witcher Main Photo

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all of them also that love his appearing. 2Timothy 4:7-8 Ellis Ray Witcher went Home to be with the Lord on October 10,2022 at the age of 71, after a long battle with Crohn’s Disease and other ailments. Ellis Ray was born to William and Ida Witcher on October 12,1950, in Sharples, West Virginia. His family moved to New Jersey, then to Columbus, Ohio where he graduated from East High School in 1969. Ray went on to study at Otterbein College where he majored in music. In the1970’sr he moved to Nashville, Tennessee. There is sang professionally with recording artist Professor Harold Boggs. In Nashville, Ray met his second family. Mother, Mary Christine Givens, Big little brother, Ronald Givens, and sister, Ramona(John)Perry. Ray attended Foster Temple M.B. Church, where he served as the Associate Minister under the leadership of Bishop Alonzo E. Hatchett. While in Nashville, Ray worked in the field of Nursing and Dietary. In the 1980’s, he returned to Ohio to help in the aid of his ailing parents. Ray was an integral part of the Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church for many, many years. He first came to the Stone as a regular attendee of the Sunday night live broadcast services. He came dressed to the nines with his tambourine ready to praise Him. After joining, Ray faithfully served in several ministries even in sickness. As a true giver, Ray was Lead Servant of the Hospitality Ministry, the Kitchen where he was the cook for the Men of Vision, Transportation, and Pastor’s Service Club. Ray frequently welcomed visitors with an encouraging word and scripture. Ray was also part of the Ministerial Staff, Seasoned Citizens, SingleStone Singles Ministry, and the Cancer Support Group. He was most involved in the church’s music ministries-the Angelic Christian Voices, the Male Chorus, the Voices of Triedstone, the Mass Choir, and his beloved Chapel/Sanctuary Choir where he was an anchor and often featured lead vocalist. Ray even stepped in to rhythmically play percussion when needed. Ray was a TRUE gift to the body of Christ, often serving as the church’s unofficial funeral psalmist. He was always prepared to bless grieving families with his powerful, melodic, and anointed selections. Whenever there was an opportunity to work in the vineyard, Ray put his hands to the gospel plow and he did the work! He was proceeded in death by his parents, Bishop William F. Witcher Sr. and Mrs. Ida M. Witcher, brothers, William F. Witcher Jr., Elder Curtis E. Witcher, sister, Patricia A. Witcher, and nephew Curtis E. Witcher Jr. He is survived by brother James L. Witcher, sisters, Joyce E.(Norman)Jones , Sheila N.(Robert)Waters all of Columbus Ohio. Aunts, Elenora Cooper(Texas), Elizabeth Cooper(New Jersey) ,Naomi Epps(North Carolina). His goddaughter Tracey Almon(Brady)Taylor, cousin Richard(Julie)Witcher. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Visitation 1:00 PM and Funeral Service 2:00 PM Saturday, October 29, 2022 at Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church, 858 E. 3rd Ave.

Condolence Messages

  1. Elder Delores Greene

    Rsy you will be missed. You were loved
    Old friend

  2. Holmes Robbie L.

    Ray was one of a kind, with an out going personality, a cook, a fashion statement, and a song on his lips. ❤️❤️❤️
    He will be missed. Family much love, our comfort is in knowing he is resting in the presence of Lord
    Robbie Witcher-Holmes

  3. Sweet Rest Minister “Ray” Witcher. You will surely be missed.

  4. Mr ray was an awesome person! I was his neighbor for 9 years and it was a pleasure! Full of love and happiness! I miss seeing him everyday! And he love his puppy! Both came and yarsi! He is truly missed!! Until we meet again!!!!

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