Ray was a standout multi-sport athlete at Thomasville High, excelling in football, basketball, and track. Beyond his athletic achievements, he was also a stellar student, graduating in the top 10 of his class with an impressive 3.9 GPA. For Ray, this academic excellence wasn't just a personal goal; it was a non-negotiable expectation set by his parents. "Education was always a must in our household," he states, crediting his mother and father for instilling in him the seriousness of his studies. This foundation of discipline and dedication would prove invaluable in the years to come.