Jacob "Ray" Robert Suggs

Boyd ~ Jacob “Ray” Robert Suggs was born on April 1, 2018, in Greenville, Texas. In November of 2018, Jacob was a victim of abusive head trauma that left him catastrophically and irreversibly injured. We first held this boy in our arms as he recovered in the hospital, and his adoption was finalized a year later. He left us for his Heavenly home on October 11, 2022, surrounded by his family.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Boyd. Family will receive friends on Friday from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.at the church.

Due to his injuries, Jacob was unable to see and unable to speak. He did not walk or even sit up on his own. But Jacob was joyful. He smiled, he babbled, he kicked and giggled. Jacob loved all kinds of music. He loved to hear windchimes in the breeze and the squeaks of silly toys. The sound of his brother’s voice never failed to produce a smile. Like any young child, he craved action and movement. He wanted to bounce on Mama’s lap and be tossed in the air by his Daddy. He wanted his siblings to push his chair fast- and race car sounds were a bonus! Jacob loved to swing, and he loved to swim. Although his ability to eat was limited, Jacob was able to enjoy his favorite treats, including red sno-cones and spicy pickles!

Jacob recognized and remembered those he loved. He was doted on by many nurses, therapists and teachers during his time here. Together they helped us give Jacob every opportunity to explore and enjoy his world. Jacob caught snowflakes on his eyelashes and felt the crashing waves of the ocean. He rode boats and trains and carousels. He knew the affection of animals and the energy of friendly children. He was loved deeply and completely every day of his life with us. Jacob was strength and courage, purity and light.

Jacob is survived by his parents, Kyle and Ashley Suggs; his brother, Eli; his sister, Addison; his grandparents, Paul and Sharla Herrin, Robert and Rebecca Ellis; his great-grandmother, Wanda Burton; his uncles and aunts, Josh and Roxie Herrin, Josh and Rachel Ellis, Tadd and Darci Ellis; and a fun-loving crew of cousins, extended family and friends.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Children’s palliative care team, as well as the nurses, therapists, teachers, caseworkers, advocates, attorneys, and investigators involved in Jacob’s story. Your devotion to Jacob during his life, and your continued service to children like him, makes all the difference in the world.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested for the Joseph Thomas Foundation, an organization that directly benefitted Jacob during his life. More information can be found at www.josephthomasfoundation.org