Vida Mae Ray

Vida Mae Taborn Ray, 86, passed away peacefully at her home in Mineral Wells, Texas, on August 31, 2025, surrounded by her loving brother and children.

Born on May 25, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Vida was born to Theresa Holland Taborn and James Taborn Sr. After the passing of her mother shortly after her birth, Vida and her siblings were lovingly raised in Mineral Wells by their maternal grandparents, Vida Mae Porter and James William Porter. Affectionately known in the community as “the Porter kids,” they were raised in a home rooted deeply in faith, family, and service.

Vida graduated from Paul Lawrence Dunbar School in Mineral Wells. She met Mitchell Charles Ray Sr and married the love of her life, on August 2nd, 1956. Together they raised four children: Mitchell Charles Ray Jr., Cassandra Joyce Ray, Melvin Edward Ray Sr., and Theresa Darnale Ray.

A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Vida pursued leadership courses at Texas College, completed nursing training at Weatherford College, and earned certifications in first aid and CPR at Palo Pinto General Hospital. She went on to build a respected 31-year career at Mepco Electra (later Phillips Component), where she worked across production, inventory, shipping, and warehouse management, retiring in 1995. Never one to slow down, she graduated from Fort Worth Beauty School and earned her Texas state license as a manicurist within the same year of retirement. In March 2008, she began substitute teaching with the Mineral Wells Independent School District, and continued until April 2020.

Vida’s commitment to her community extended far beyond the workplace. She served on numerous boards, including the Community Services Cooperation Board, the Department of Human Resources Board, and the Department of Human Services Child Welfare Board. In recognition of her outstanding service and community impact, Vida was inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Isabel Smith District of the Texas Association of Women’s Clubs – Southwest Region, National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, on April 17, 2004.

Vida, alongside fellow graduates of Dunbar High School, co-founded the Paul Lawrence Dunbar Reunion. Vida held various officer positions and she proudly passed on the leadership torch in 2023.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Vida was a devoted and active member of Mt. Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church. She faithfully served in numerous roles, including church secretary, member of both the trustee and steward boards, the missionary society, and as a joyful voice in the choir. Her favorite Bible verse, Psalm 23, offered her comfort and guidance throughout her life.

Vida’s lifelong motto, “Find a way or make one,” captured the strength, resilience, and determination that defined her character. These words not only guided her own journey but also served as a lasting source of encouragement and inspiration to those around her.

Vida Mae Taborn Ray is lovingly survived by her brother, Robert William Porter Sr., and half-brother Larry Taborn; her children, Cassandra Ray, Melvin Ray, and Theresa Ray; her grandchildren, Kristin Ray-Ruiz, Melvin Ray Jr., Madison Ray, Denise Ray, and LaKenya Burke-Ray; and her great-grandchildren, Juniesha Gains-Ray and Lazaro Ruiz Jr. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and great-nieces and - great-nephews, all of whom were blessed by her steadfast love, guidance, and presence.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mitchell Charles Ray Sr.; her son, Mitchell Charles Ray Jr.; and her siblings, Felida Taborn Norris, James Taborn Jr.

Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Baum Carlock Bumgardner Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday, September 11, 2025 at First Baptist Church in Mineral Wells. Interment will follow at Pollard Cemetery.