A Warrior’s Journey Ends: Remembering Gary “Ganue” Don Ray Sr.

With profound grief and heavy hearts, the family of Gary “Ganue” Don Ray Sr., of San Francisco, CA, announces his passing at the age of 49, after valiantly fighting a ten-year battle with cancer. Gary passed away surrounded by those he loved, leaving behind a powerful legacy of courage, humor, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

Gary’s journey was not defined by his illness but by how he chose to live despite it. Throughout countless treatments, hospital visits, and pain-filled days, he held on to his signature smile and quick wit. Friends and family would often say, “If Ganue could make you laugh, he would—no matter how much pain he was in.” His strength wasn’t just in his ability to endure, but in the light he brought to others even during his darkest moments.

 A Heart So Big, A Spirit So Free

Gary wasn’t just a fighter—he was a pillar of love and light. As a devoted father, his children were his world, and he never missed a chance to support their dreams or show up when they needed him. As a son and brother, he was the glue that held his family together, always the one to crack a joke or offer a shoulder. As an uncle, cousin, and friend, he gave his time, his energy, and his love freely and generously.

Known affectionately as “Ganue” to many, Gary was the man you could call at 3 a.m., the one who showed up when others wouldn’t. His warm spirit filled every room. His voice—whether in laughter or in song—echoed with genuine joy. His cooking brought people together, and his stories could make you laugh until you cried.

Cancer may have taken his body, but it never took his spirit, and it never silenced the love he poured into every person lucky enough to know him.

 Gone from Our Sight, Forever in Our Hearts

Gary’s passing has left a gaping hole in the hearts of his loved ones and the San Francisco community. He didn’t just leave memories—he left impact. Tributes have poured in across social media and neighborhood circles, painting the picture of a man who gave much more than he ever received. A man whose life, though cut short, was lived fully and fearlessly.

In honoring Gary, we are reminded that life is not measured by the number of years but by the love we give, the lives we touch, and the laughs we share. Gary “Ganue” Don Ray Sr. embodied all of that—and so much more.

Details for a public memorial service will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, the family invites all who knew him to light a candle, say a prayer, and remember Gary for the joy he brought to this world.

May he rest in eternal peace.