The event, held at Jefferson Hamilton Park, was not about Ray Lee’s death, but about his life.
The day was overcast, but no one seemed to notice - they were too busy having a good time.
Taplin’s mother was surprised by the celebration - family and friends kept it a secret from her.
Lorena Taplin described her son as a family man.
“He was a leader and always kept everyone together,” she said.
Ray Lee Taplin, who was 42 when he died, enjoyed all sports, whether it was baseball or football. His favorite pastime, however, was dominoes.
“If he was here right now, he would be leading everyone in a game of it,” Mrs. Taplin said.
This past Thursday, Chauncy Eugene Wilson was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life in prison for the shooting death of Ray Lee.
Mrs. Taplin said the verdict in the case could not have come at a better time.
“I cried and jumped up when they told me,” Mrs. Taplin said. “I thank God for it and I’m thankful for the jury that they found him (Wilson) guilty.”
The celebration Sunday was lively and at the center of the feast was a colorful cake with a smiling picture of Ray Lee. There was plenty of barbecue for everyone, even though more than 200 people showed up and new arrivals seemed to be continually popping in.
Ray Lee’s cousin, Sammy Lee Taplin, was happy to have the family together.
“It means a lot to have everyone here. This has brought us closer,” he said of his cousin’s murder. “We have always been close, but it’s made us even closer.”
Sammy Lee and a few other relatives played a game of dominoes in commemoration of Ray Lee.
“He was the domino king,” Sammy Lee Taplin said.
Sammy Lee said those who gathered found hope in the celebration.
“Now we feel Ray Lee can rest in peace,” he said.
