Ms. Ronay Marice Ike-James was born September 10, 1969 in East St. Louis, Illinois to the union of Eula G. Ike and Gerald Wayne Burrell. Ronay was preceded in death by her father, Gerald Burrell; brother, DaMani Ike; maternal grandparents, Edna Mae Mickens and Willie Lee Ike; paternal grandparents, Annie and Ammer Burrell; special uncles, Isaac L. Ike, Albert "Butch Ike" Mickens and Tommie Williams; and a host of other relatives.

Although Ronay lost her father at a young age, she was still blessed to have three important men in her life to help guide her, her late uncle, Tommie Williams, the late Herbert Blackmon and the late Wendell Dancy Sr.

Ronay accepted Christ at an early age when she attended Greater St. Mark Church of God In Christ. She received her education in the East St. Louis School District 189. Ronay graduated from East St. Louis Senior High School in 1987 where she was known for her loud talking and sassiness. She went on to further her education at Parks College of St. Louis University in Cahokia, IL.

Ronay became a mother in 1988 and that's when her life changed forever. She was a loving caregiver to her children, grandchildren, and nearly everyone she came in contact with. Ronay showed up and showed out for everyone no matter the occasion or event. She spoke her mind very freely and didn't mind telling you how she felt or what she felt about you, but it was all out of love. Ronay loved visiting family and friends, and hosting BBQ's and card parties. She was always eager to play cards so she could show off her card skills and yell out "My uncle Tommie taught me that!" The love Ronay had for her family and friends was so special and different that she made sure she would tell anybody "I'll kill a brick about them!" Ronay was a very special and loving individual that will truly be missed.

Ms. Ronay Marice Ike-James leaves behind to cherish her memories: mother, Eula G. Ike; 2 daughters, Ci'Aira Nettles and Myeisha James; one and only son, Emil Lewis Jr.; 7 grandchildren, A'Riyah King, Ar'Mani Nettles, Da'Mani Nettles, A'Lisa "LeLe" King, Eniko Lewis, Demi Johnson and her special Kaleb "Butt Butt" James; god-daughter, Jamie Foster; special cousins, (her sisters), Jacqueline Williams, Shana Williams, and Tamara (Thomas) Williams-Cunningham; cousins, Ronald Ike Sr. and Torrey Williams; a host of other loving aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends.