The Power of Gospel Music Rev. Dr. Ray’s Legacy Continues
By Katina Rice-Davis, Staff Writer | katina@thewoodrufftimes
Rev. Dr. Elijah Ray, a proud son of Woodruff, has built a remarkable life of service and achievement. Dr. Ray graduated from Woodruff High School in 1978. A standout athlete, he played football and basketball, later earning induction into the Woodruff High School Football Hall of Fame. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC. Dr. Ray furthered his education with a Master of Divinity Degree from Erskine Theological Seminary in 2015. He earned his Doctor of Ministry degree in 2022. With over 30 years of experience in logistics, Dr. Ray serves as Chief
Customer Officer for a leading logistics company. His dedication to his profession and community has made him a distinguished leader and a beacon of excellence.
Dr. Elijah Ray’s outstanding contributions to the community have been acknowledged with several distinguished awards. He was honored as an Upstate SC Black History Maker in both 2008 and 2016, recognizing his dedication to providing scholarships through his annual event, Spirit Fest. Additionally, He received the esteemed Bruce G. Pierce Award from Erskine Theological Seminary in 2015, highlighting his commitment to Christian leadership. Dr. Ray was also recognized by the South Carolina Senate for his 25 years of service to the community, promoting gospel music and providing scholarships to deserving students. His commitment to giving back to the community has had a lasting impact on the lives of many.
Beyond his many accomplishments, Dr. Ray has devoted himself to his faith community, serving as pastor of Wyatt’s Chapel Baptist Church, Buffalo SC since 2009. He is a product of Beaverdam Baptist Church, Enoree, SC and New Bethel Baptist Church, Woodruff, SC. His musical talents have also been a blessing to many, as he has sung with The Gospel Prophets for over four decades. On a personal note, Dr. Ray is supported by his loving family, including his wife, Vanessa Watson Ray, and their daughter, Savannah.
In 1990, Dr. Ray founded E. Ray Promotions, a gospel concert promotions company dedicated to creating an environment where people can be spiritually blessed and enriched through gospel music. As President and CEO, he has led the company to become a staple in the community.
In March 1990, E. Ray Promotions launched its very first concert featuring nationally known artist, Tutu and the Truthettes at the Woodruff City Auditorium. The company’s annual “After Labor Day Songfest” debuted in September 1991 at the old Greenville Memorial Auditorium and was later renamed “Spirit Fest.” Spirit Fest has been held at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, SC since 1998, making it the longest-running event at the venue.
This annual celebration of gospel music took place on September 1, 2024, at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. This year’s theme was “The Experience.” In attendance were spirit-filled, electrifying, soulful sounds from some of the most renowned artists in the history of gospel music including Tye Tribbett, The Canton Spirituals, Donald Lawrence & Co., Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and others. “I love to see people from different states participate in this legacy,” says Dr. Ray. “To me, Spirit Fest means the community coming together to worship God in a happy, joyful environment, where gospel music is being sung and people are enjoying themselves. With the idea of “community”, I know that God is glorified in our worship,” he adds.
E. Ray Promotions in conjunction with Spirit Fest also sponsors a scholarship benefit program to recognize academic excellence and leadership qualities for deserving community youth. Each year recipients are recognized on stage during the event. Additionally, E. Ray Promotions presents a Trail Blazer Award, which is awarded to a person who has made significant contributions to gospel music in the community.
The event was an unforgettable experience, bringing together individuals and communities from all walks of life to share in the joy and inspiration of gospel music. With a shared passion for the event and its mission, the Spirit Fest Team is working tirelessly to ensure a memorable and uplifting experience for all in attendance. “With all of the things that are going on in the world today, Spirit Fest is where the attendees can momentarily forget about those issues & focus on God in a positive, spiritually enriching atmosphere & block everything else out”, says Dr. Ray. Through E. Ray Promotions, Dr. Ray has brought joy and inspiration to countless individuals, solidifying his commitment to sharing the power of gospel music with the community.
Author: Tracy Sanders
