Ouida LaJuana Summerville Ray, lovingly known as Mam or Maw Maw, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. Born May 26, 1945, in El Dorado, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Dewell "Dude" Summerville and Vergie Sinclair Summerville.

LaJuana was the heart of her family — the matriarch, the steady presence, and the one everyone turned to for comfort, guidance, and unconditional love. Her life was defined by devotion to her family and the land, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and purpose.

She was never one to chase titles or recognition. Instead, she poured her energy into what truly mattered. Alongside her beloved husband, Billy, she helped run the family farm and various small businesses. LaJuana kept the books but was never afraid to roll up her sleeves and do the hard work herself. Whether feeding livestock, repairing fences, or doing paperwork late into the evening, she believed no task was beneath her if it helped her family thrive.

At home, LaJuana's talents shone in quieter but equally meaningful ways. She was a gifted cook whose kitchen was always open, and a skilled seamstress. Her hands were rarely still — stirring a pot of gumbo, stitching a quilt, or caring for those around her. Through her care, her words, and her presence, she made everyone feel safe, loved, and at home.
Above all, she was a caregiver. Her love was warm, constant, and deeply felt. Friends and family knew they could count on her to lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or share a meal. Her gentle strength, generosity, and deep devotion to family created a legacy of kindness and connection that will live on for generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Derrell Ray; her beloved granddaughter, Lauren Ashley Ray; her brother Bob Summerville and his wife Janice, along with their grandson Calen Summerville and great-granddaughter Ryatt Merritt; her brother Duane Summerville and his wife Elaine, together with their son David Summerville and granddaughter Katie Summerville; her sister Lou Summerville; her sister-in-law Melba Pierce; and her best friend, Bonnie Puckett, along with her special fur babies, Sammy and Roscoe.

She is survived by her daughter, Tina Crutchfield, and son-in-law Keith Crutchfield; her son, Doy Ray, and daughter-in-law Lisa Ray; her granddaughter Kayla Keedy and her husband Karson Keedy; her grandson Justin Ray and his partner Michael Adler; and her great-grandchildren Blair Ray, Kurt Keedy, Maddox Mapili, and Klover Rae Keedy.

She is now at peace and reunited with her beloved husband, a comfort to those who mourn her absence. Though life without her feels unimaginable, her spirit lives on in the memories shared, the traditions she built, and the love she gave so freely.

In lieu of a funeral, both Billy and LaJuana wished for their friends and family to take time outdoors, catch a fish, and enjoy the scenery in honor of them.

Mam will be deeply missed and forever cherished.