Lindsey Ray Daniels

The Legendary Ray Daniels

Lindsey Ray Daniels, 84 of Detroit, Michigan otherwise known as “Ray” passed away peacefully in the privacy of his home February 12, 2022. Ray was born in Lovejoy, Illinois, and attended Saginaw High School, studied at Michigan State University and WSU. He worked at General Motors. He owned Ray Daniels Music Publishers, Inc and was the founder of the well-known Ray Daniels House of Music located at 12410 Indiana Street, Detroit, Michigan.  

He taught musicians in the Detroit area for many years how to play the piano, organ and sing traditional gospel music. And to his surprise many students wanted to learn the traditional gospel music. He loved teaching young people the history of old-time gospel. As Gospel music evolved, so did Ray’s teachings. He quickly adapted to the progressive new sound of gospel music. He taught hundreds of students who would go on to be some of the most talented people playing in the many churches throughout the Detroit area. He led the Ray Daniels Voices of Christ Community Choir. Ray Daniels teachings and influence could be felt throughout the Detroit community.

Ray loved his community of Detroit. He loved the people. He was always ready and available to help others and took pride in all he did.  People will remember him as being the father, brother or uncle they may not have had and most of all a friend. He was a sense of reasoning. His wisdom and knowledge helped many. He was an old school kind of guy. For all the people he inspired, motivated and touched over the years he will never be forgotten. Ray will forever be loved.

Those that knew him know his personal life was private and quiet but when he was needed, he was always there. He wants his family and friends to know that although he will be missed, his last words were, “All is well”.

              I’m Free
             Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
                      I’m following the path
                       God has laid for me.
             I took his hand when I heard him call
                 I turned my back and left it all

                   I could not stay another day,
                To laugh, to love, to work or play 
              Tasks left undone must stay that way
                I’ve found peace
                At the end of day

A Poem for Ray

Heaven needed an Angel so they called on Ray, they needed someone who was musically inclined, who could brighten up the day.

They spent many years observing how he shared his love for music teaching its history to students far and wide.

The sound of the piano the organ, the tapping of the feet, was the kind of lesson you learned and how to keep the beat.

There were many perks in studying with Ray, he was kind and understanding, a great teacher ready to motivate and get you through your day. Whenever there was good news, he passed it along your way.

Gospel music was in the air, in the room and all around. Whenever you heard it, you knew it was the Ray Daniels House of Music sound.

He will always be remembered, He will always be loved, Heaven chose an Angel to play music for them above.

A Poem Inspired by Ray's friend,

Tiffany