Stevie was one of those exceptional people who did.
On Wednesday night, as I walked into the Holloway Funeral Home to pay respects to Deputy Steven Ray, I was stunned, caught off guard and overwhelmed. Not by the numbers of people who filled the entryway or the line that spilled out onto the sidewalks, or the large presence of members of the sheriff's office or the colors of Mardela High School. Not by the motorcycles placed in the center of the room, first the Sheriff's Office Motor unit which Stevie was so very proud of belonging to, or the black-on-black Victory parked behind it, or even the enormous sprays and arrangements of flowers, so large they stood on the floor rather than on tabletops, but by the sheer amount of photographs, signatures of condolences and memories that lined the hall and viewing area. What went through my mind was just one single thing; you don't get all this by leading an average, ordinary life.
This kind of outpouring of support doesn't just happen. You don't motivate, mentor or inspire others by leading a passive life, coming home from work and lying on the couch all night, or just “doing your job” and then sitting back to let the rest of the world handle the tough problems. You get that kind of remembrance by being an individual of character; a person of exceptional dedication and determination; a bright light. While some may just go through each day doing their job, coasting along at an average speed, there are those who soar high above the rest, inspiring us as they fly. They are the ones who bring blessings to their town, community and country - and Stevie was one of those people.
We are blessed to have known him ~ forever changed by his spirit ~ heartbroken at having to say goodbye.
Established in support of law enforcement located on the fourteen counties of Delmarva (DE & the eastern shore areas of MD & VA); advocating respect for all who serve and protect. #delmarvablue
