Loretta McCray's Obituary
Evangelist Loretta “Lo” McCray, age 73, of Escondido, California, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 24, 2025. Born October 29, 1951 in Riverside, she was the fourth of eight children born to her late parents, T.C. Carroll and Evangelist Velmary Horton Carroll.
A Palm Springs High School graduate, Class of 1969, Lo also pursued additional educational certifications to enhance her skill set and earn a better living for her children. With a spirit full of determination, laughter, and love, she built a fulfilling career, retiring after more than 20 years of dedicated service as a Student Services Support Specialist with UC San Diego Extension. Her colleagues remember her for her vibrant personality, quick wit, and ability to bring joy and encouragement to everyone around her. Lo’s “sass and Mom qualities” made work feel like family, and her impact will be felt for generations.
Lo had a divine gift for making people feel seen, heard, valued, and loved. Her words carried wisdom, her presence brought comfort, and her faith guided her every step. In 1990, she re-dedicated her life to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and from that moment on, she walked and spoke boldly and beautifully in her purpose as a true woman of God. Her faith was unwavering, her loyalty unshakable, and her heart forever anchored in the Holy Spirit. AMEN!
Deeply involved in her community, Lo faithfully served on the boards of numerous nonprofit organizations, including NERDS RULE INC., The World Kindness Movement, A BRAVE SPACE, and Mental Health America. She also poured her heart into ministry with the Church of God in Christ—Healing Hands, continuing to uplift others through service, compassion, and prayer.
Beyond her many achievements, Lo’s greatest joys were her family, faith, and fellowship. She loved shopping adventures and road trips with her daughter Tristaca, quiet moments of “nesting,” and sharing laughter and love with those closest to her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Charles & Morris Carroll, and sisters Florabell Parks and Velma Williams.
She leaves to cherish her memory: her former husband, Andrew McCray; beloved daughters Dr. Tristaca McCray, Annette Parker-Haynes; devoted son-in-love Stacey Haynes, Sr; siblings Minnie McGee, Pastor Bob Carroll, and Vivian Polidore; God-daughters Tina McGee, Kijana Cooke, and Taynisha Riley; Godson Loren Oden; and a host of Godchildren, cousins, current and former brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who became family.
Loretta was one of a kind — full of grace, faith, humor, and heart. Though she has earned her heavenly wings, her light continues to shine in all who were blessed to know her.
What’s your fondest memory of Loretta?
What’s a lesson you learned from Loretta?
Share a story where Loretta's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Loretta you’ll never forget.
How did Loretta make you smile?
