Macedonia Moravian Church Honors Calvin Ray Cress with Celebration of Life Service

Calvin Ray Cress, a devoted member of the Macedonia Moravian Church, passed away on January 27, 2016, at Forsyth Medical Center. He was 83 years old and had lived a life marked by service and community involvement. Born on November 1, 1932, in Mecklenburg County, Cress was the only child of Hobert Ray and Capitola Bost Cress. His marriage to Joan May, whom he described as the love of his life, lasted 63 years, reflecting a deep commitment to family and faith.

Cress served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1953 to 1957, attaining the rank of Sergeant and serving aboard the USS Missouri. His career included employment at J.C. Penney during high school and later at AT&T Western Electric, where he worked for 37 years as a Technical Writer. He graduated from Griffith High School and later attended ICS, demonstrating a lifelong pursuit of education and personal growth.

In his later years, Cress found joy in various hobbies such as golfing, woodworking, gardening, and spending time with his family. He was also actively involved in his church, serving as a church diener and an Adult Sunday School teacher. His leadership extended to the Macedonia Moravian Church, where he co-chaired the Board of Trustees. Under his guidance, the church built a half-million-dollar educational building in 1988, which was dedicated without debt, showcasing his dedication to the community and its future.

Cress was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, known for his kindness and generosity. He was preceded in death by his parents, but his legacy lives on through his wife Joan, three children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. A celebration of life service was held at Macedonia Moravian Church, where Rev. Hampton Morgan officiated, allowing the community to honor his memory and contributions.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to charitable causes, including the Autism Society, NC Special Olympics of Davie County, and Macedonia Moravian Church. His life exemplifies the values of service and community, reflecting the spirit of Micah 6:8, which calls for justice, mercy, and humble service.

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