Mary Nance Ray

Mrs. Mary Nance Ray, age 85, of Longview, previously of Gilmer, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 15, 2018 at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas.

A committal service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at the Mausoleum at Rosewood Park Cemetery. 1884 FM 1844 Seven Pines Rd. Longview, TX 75605, with Bro. Marion Palmer officiating.

Mary was born at home in Como, Texas on December 23, 1932 to the late Wilburn Nance and Maurine Bridges Nance. Mary worked as a secretary for an accounting firm in Beaumont for many years. She was an active and devoted member of First Baptist Church in Gilmer until her health declined. Her true passion in life was quilting; she was a master quilter, winning contests and instructing others in the art of quilting. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and was an avid reader.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 66 years on January 25, 2018, Mr. Paul Ray, her parents; a daughter, Phyllis Ray; a sister, Ruth Nance; and grandson, Ben Cessna.

She is survived by her sons, Corbett Ray and wife Liz of Dallas, Clint Ray and wife Janna of Beaumont, Greg Ray and wife Julie of Greer, SC.; daughter, Rhonda Shearer of Arkadelphia, AR.; brother, James Nance of Guerneville, CA.; grandchildren, Jennifer Boone, Stephen Boone, Nathan Ray, Ryan Cessna, J.C. Cessna, Mari Ann Cobb, Claire Ray Dorsett, Hannah Ray Pirie; six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to the: First Baptist Church of Gilmer or the charity of your choice.