Lernard Abdul McCray

Lernard “Duke” McCray passed away on April 9, 2026 at Ascension SacredHeart Bay in Panama City, Florida at the age of 47. Lernard “Duke”McCray was born in Dothan, Alabama, at Southeast Medical Center, to the late Alfred Freeman and Benita Freeman. From an early age, he displayed a vibrant personality and a love for life that would remain with him throughout his years.

He was a proud graduate of Ashford High School, Class of “98”, Following his education, Lernard dedicated his time to his work at Captain’s Jack and Hammerhead Fred’s, where he was known for his strong work ethic and engaging spirit. Beyond his professional life, he found true joy in cooking, dancing, and creating moments of laughter and fellowship with those around him. His ability to bring happiness into any room will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Lernard was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He cherished his family and valued every opportunity to spend time with his loved ones.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Tanya Belle McCray; his mother, Benita Freeman; his daughter, Amya McCray; his stepdaughter,

Mahoganie Spears; and his stepson, Jarvis Spears. He is also survived by his sisters, Crystal (Derrick) Powell, Taheshia (Tyrene) Underwood, and Canecca Mayes; and his brother, Jenard (Fredisha) Freeman of Ashford, Alabama.

Lernard’s memory will also be treasured by a large and loving extended family. His Father-in-Law Willie Frank Bolden, Dothan, Alabama.  His uncles include Ronnie (Kristie) McCray and Douglas McCray of Birmingham, Alabama; Christopher McCray of Los Angeles California; Heath McCray, Springville, Alabama; Derrick (Patricia) Caswell of Webb, Alabama; Maurice (Kathy) Brown and Stanley (Maria) Brown of Dothan, Alabama; Richard Bolden of Dothan, Alabama; and Frankie Bolden of Georgia. His aunts include Barbara (Jerome) Sanders and Sharon (Michael) Black of Dothan, Alabama; Jacqueline (Greg) Amos of Newton, Alabama; Linda Banks of Taylor, Alabama; Yvonne Brown and Mable Little of Ashford, Alabama; and Monique Bolden of Dothan, Alabama.

He is further survived by his bonus uncle and aunt, Emory (Michelle) Mayes of Dothan, Alabama; and Kenny Collins of Ashford, Alabama.

Lernard was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Freeman; his grandparents, Johnnie McCray Sr., Mary McCray, James Freeman, and Mildred Brown; his uncle, Johnnie McCray Jr.; his aunt, Sandra Brown; his aunt, Darlene Caswell; his uncle, James Earl Freeman; his mother-in-law, Robbie Lee Spears; and his uncle, Kenny Charles Brown.    

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lernard Abdul McCray, please visit our floral store.