T. Ray is a character from the novel "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd. He is the father of the protagonist, Lily Owens, and is depicted as a harsh and abusive figure. T. Ray struggles with his own grief and anger, which affects his relationship with Lily and shapes her desire to escape her troubled home life. In the story, T. Ray's oppressive nature serves as a catalyst for Lily's journey toward self-discovery and healing. His character represents the challenges of familial relationships and the impact of trauma, ultimately highlighting the importance of love and support found in other characters, such as August Boatwright.