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Shirley Jo Ann Ray of Marietta passed from this life on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the age of 76, peacefully surrounded by her loved ones. She was born Friday, December 31, 1948, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Ellen Margaret (Wride) and Lawrence E. Colson.
She was a lifelong resident of Los Lunas, New Mexico, and spent the last five years in Marietta. Shirley lived a life dedicated to her family, faith, and community. She worked in various roles throughout her life, including as a cosmetologist, an EMT, and a school bus driver, touching many lives through her service and care.
A devoted member of the Eastside Baptist Church, Shirley's faith was central to her life. She found joy in spending time outdoors, hosting family gatherings, and watching her great-grandchildren play. She had a passion for gardening, raising chickens, and crocheting, hobbies that reflected her nurturing spirit and love for the simple pleasures in life.
On July 14, 1967, Shirley married the love of her life, James Howard Ray, in Belen, New Mexico. Together they built a strong and loving family, sharing a marriage of 57 beautiful years.
Shirley is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Colson; her mother, Ellen Colson; and her brother, Ronald Colson.
She is survived by her husband, James Howard Ray of Marietta; her son, Jeff Ray and wife Joanna of Williamsburg, Virginia; her daughter, Jodi Oyler and husband Daniel of Marietta; her grandchildren, Cameron Coleman and wife Ola of Ardmore, Devin Coleman and wife Cynthia of Marietta, Wade Ray and wife Coral of Henderson, Nevada, Brianna Coleman of Ardmore, and Kincade Ray of Henderson, Nevada, and her seven beloved great-grandchildren, Aaliyah, Lainxtyn, Ali, Gatlin, Eastyn, Gianna, and Sadie.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eastside Baptist Church in Shirley's memory.
Shirley's love, kindness, and unwavering faith will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 13, at Eastside Baptist Church, 107 North Fernwood Avenue, Marietta.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Gordon Funeral Home, 221 N. 3rd, Durant.
Gordon
A photo of Mrs. Ray was included in this obituary.
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