William "Bill Blitz" E. McCray

William Edward McCray, 63 of Roanoke, Virginia went to be with the Lord on Monday, March 25, 2024. He was born on July 12, 1960, in Salem, Va., the son of the late William Preston and Cleo Woodson McCray.

Those who are left to cherish his memory are his wife Lolly McCray, daughters Leigh Anne Danil (Rami), and Vanessa Hooks (Jamie), and his grandchildren Chandler Blackstock, Ava Danil, James, Lily, and Noah Hooks. and a brother Bobby McCray (Diane). A special niece Shannon Jarels and a great nephew Steven Hale. Many other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brothers, David (Josh) McCray, Richard McCray, Barry McCray, and his sister Viki Robinson,

He was an amazing musician who was well known in the Roanoke Valley as Bill Blitz. He was not a big sports fan but was interested in anything with strings on it. He loved his family, friends, and all his musician family. He was also very passionate about his animals. He suffered a great loss when he lost his puppy Daisy last year. I feel solace in knowing he’s in a better place with his family and all the animals that he so loved.

Bill had a charismatic way about him and could talk a blue streak to anyone he met. He was a talker and never met a stranger. He was well-liked and well-respected by his family and friends, along with the musician community.

A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, April 1, 2024, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, in Salem. Pastor Tim Gearheart will officiate.

Friends may call on the family from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Monday.

He was a huge advocate for animal rescues. In lieu of flowers please make donations to an animal rescue center in his name.

Online condolences may be expressed to the McCray family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.