Raymond James Shuster Jr. died on July 26, 2024. He was 80.
A devoted husband, father, and grandpa, “Dr. Ray” was a talented musician, beloved teacher, and courageous church leader. He dedicated his life to loving others, making music, and leading with humility and joy in many communities, to the glory of God.
Born on July 7, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan to Raymond James Shuster Sr. and Martha (Krzyston) Shuster, Ray took to the piano at a young age, also discovering his lifelong love of reading. He graduated in 1962 from Cass Technical High School in Detroit, going on to earn his bachelor’s degree at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, majoring in music. He earned a master’s degree at Wayne State University in piano performance.
In 1966, Ray married Marylin Giebel, his high school sweetheart.
He began his career teaching music and directing ensembles at Detroit Bible College/William Tyndale College and later taught at Wayne State University, Marygrove College and University of Detroit-Mercy. He led church music ministries in Novi and Birmingham, taking time mid-career to earn a master’s degree in musicology and a doctorate in vocal performance from the University of Michigan.
For 16 years, Ray was director of music at Cornerstone EPC in Brighton, Michigan, where he developed choral, instrumental and children’s programs, and drew hundreds at any given time into making music. He then directed the music program at Faith Community Presbyterian Church in Novi. He taught voice at Walled Lake Western High School and piano and voice at his home, coaching many talented young actor/singers toward roles in high school musicals and college musical theater programs.
Ray was a valued member of the tenor section of the Michigan Chorale Union, with which he performed, among many other great choral pieces, Handel’s “Messiah” each Christmas season and recently, “A German Requiem” by Brahms. Both were works he loved deeply.
For Ray, music and theology went hand in hand. He delighted in finding scriptural truths of the love of God and redemption in Christ in the pieces he directed and performed with others.
Up through July, Ray was active with the music program at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor, where he and Marylin had recently found a faith community.
Ray was a car guy, good at sharing knowledge of classic and modern automobiles with his kids and grandkids. He also imparted to them his love of the outdoors and led an active life. He enjoyed daily walks and played golf frequently with friends.
Ray exemplified generosity, wisdom, and enthusiasm – but most of all, to echo the words of Paul in I Corinthians, love. His sense of humor underlaid even the challenges of life, reflecting his ultimate trust in Christ his Lord. He frequently reminded his loved ones, “It’s all joy.”
Ray is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marylin; children, Kate Blackwood (Bill) and Michael Shuster (Jessica); three grandchildren; sister, Martye Lowery, and innumerable friends.
Visitation is at the Shuster home in South Lyon on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 3 - 6 p.m. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024, 1 p.m., at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Health.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
