Raymond Joseph McCormick, Sr.

Raymond Joseph McCormick Sr., age 53, passed away suddenly on December 28, 2025. He was born on August 23, 1972, and was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, a place he proudly called home throughout his life. Raymond known to many simply as “Ray” was a loving father, and a friend to everyone he met. He never met a stranger. Ray had a natural gift for conversation, a smooth way with words, and a heart that loved deeply and fiercely. Racing was in Ray’s bones. In the early 1990s, he lived out his passion as a crew member for Petty Enterprises, an experience he was deeply proud of and one that shaped much of his life. Being part of the NASCAR world fulfilled him deeply. Ray carried the knowledge, discipline, and love of racing with him always, and his stories from the track were legendary to those lucky enough to hear them. Ray graduated from the St. Augustine police academy and served as a correctional officer at the Florida State Prison and saw the potential in others and wanted to help them. Ray was also known for always stopping to assist at roadside accidents—he never hesitated to help. His goal was not only to take action, but to bring comfort and care to those involved, offering calm reassurance and compassion during their moments of fear and despair. Ray spent many years working and managing a family window business. His generosity knew no limits; he would give the shirt off his back and help others even when it cost him personally. His children were his pride and joy and anyone he came in contact with knew how much he loved his family. Ray lived boldly, loved hard, and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. His legacy of loyalty, courage, protection, and unconditional love will continue through his family and all whose lives he touched.

Ray is survived by his loving family to include his mother Nancy Bessent (Ted) children: Raymond McCormick Jr., (Cris) and Grandson, (Sebastian) . His daughter, Brooke Holden,(Josh) his brother, Russell McCormick Sr.(Lou’Anne) and their children (Mallory, and Preston) sister in law Amy McCormick and her son (Robert McCormick Jr) brother, Carl McCormick Jr. and his son (Conner) along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Carl Eugene McCormick Sr.; his brother, Robert McCormick Sr.; and his nephew, Russell McCormick Jr.