Kenneth Ray was my nephew. He was family. He was loved. And like too many families, ours was impacted by suicide after he struggled with mental health challenges that became overwhelming.  

His name was Kenneth Ray.  
And today, we dedicate this home as Kenneth’s Ray.  

The name carries two meanings.  

First, it carries him — his full name, spoken and remembered.  
Second, it carries hope. Because a ray is light. A ray breaks through darkness. A ray reminds us that even when everything feels heavy, light is still possible.  

We are not defining Kenneth by how he died. We are honoring who he was. We are choosing to let his name stand for something life-giving.  

This home will be a place where:  

• People are seen.  
• Mental health is talked about openly.  
• Struggles are met with compassion.  
• Asking for help is seen as strength.  
• And no one feels invisible.  

If Kenneth’s story teaches us anything, it is that silent suffering can be devastating — but connection can be life-saving.  

As his family, I carry grief. But I also carry purpose. Naming this home Kenneth’s Ray is my way of turning loss into light. It is my way of ensuring that his life continues to matter — not just in memory, but in impact.  

May this house be a place where light is intentionally created.  
May it be a place of safety and healing.  
May it be a place where hope is rebuilt, one day at a time.  

Kenneth Ray was loved. He is remembered.  
And through Kenneth’s Ray, his name becomes a light for others walking through darkness.