Donnie Ray Anderson, 56, of Rockford departed this earthly life Wednesday, December 22, 2021. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri the son of Helen Malone and John Spraggins. Donnie Ray moved to Rockford in 1975, where he attended Jefferson High School, participating in their ROTC Program. He was employed by Cliffbreakers many years. Donnie Ray always knew how to make you laugh and put a smile on your face, and he loved spending time with his family and friends. He will be truly missed by everyone that loved and knew him, especially hearing him say "shut up punk".

Donnie Ray leaves to cherish many loving memories, his nine children, five daughters, Tamika Muhammad, Ladonna Ferguson, Nichola Ferguson, Dionna Anderson and Shiann Cowan; four sons, Donnelle Anderson, Trey Cowan, Derrick Patterson, and Diontay Cowan; 27 grandchildren; sisters, Alice Anderson and  Tina Anderson; brothers, Stanley Thomas, John Spraggins and John Davis; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Helen Malone and John Spraggins; grandson, Kahlid Muhammad, Jr.; sisters, Patricia Starr and Brenda Anderson; brother, Michael Spraggins; brother in law Robert Starr; nephews Karzell Anderson, Scotty Anderson and Decari Starr; niece Ramiyah Robinson.

Donnie Rays family will privately celebrate his life.