Reverend Dr. Trinette Vernell McCray

**Rev. Dr. Trinette Vernell McCray**, 71, peacefully passed away on Ascension Day, May 29, 2025. A Milwaukee native, she was a trailblazing minister, educator, and advocate whose life was marked by faith, service, and justice.

Rev. Dr. McCray earned her B.A. from UW-Oshkosh and a Master’s in Religious Education from the Morehouse School of Religion, where she was ordained in 1981. She later received a Doctor of Ministry from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary and an honorary Doctor of Divinity in 2021. Influenced by Black liberation and womanist theology, she was a pioneer in both church and academic spaces.

She made history as the first clergywoman President of American Baptist Churches USA (2000-2001) and served in numerous national and local leadership roles. Her ministry extended to education, social justice, and public theology through her work at Cardinal Stritch University and the Urban Center-Milwaukee. An author, vocalist, and spiritual leader, she wrote *Vital Spirit, Vital Service*.

A cancer survivor of 11 years, she used her journey to minister to others, becoming a Certified Cancer Care Ministry Trainer. She was also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and a cherished aunt, godmother, and mentor to many.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Ruth McCray, and her brother, Arnold. She is survived by her sister Linda A. Brantley, nieces, nephews, extended family, and a devoted circle of friends and mentees.

Her legacy is summed up in her words:
*”Ministry is life and ministry is service.”*

We give thanks for the remarkable life of Rev. Dr. Trinette V. McCray.