Joyce Carolyn Ray

Joyce Carolyn Smartt was born on April 27, 1932, in Lamar, Colorado. She was the daughter of Mabel Ilene Lindblad Smartt and Lucien Savage Smartt. Joyce grew up in McClave, Colorado, lovingly “spoiled” by her three older brothers: Dean, Tom, and Lucien.

Raised on a farm, Joyce learned early the values of hard work, resilience, and devotion to family. Those lessons shaped her into a woman who was kind, steady, and endlessly giving. Her homegrown beauty and strength of character earned her the title of Miss Lamar in 1951—a reflection of the grace she carried throughout her life.

After graduating from McClave High School, she went on to earn an associate’s Degree from Blair Business College in Colorado Springs. Later, she attended Colorado State University, where she met Fort Collins football stud Earl Ray. They married on June 9, 1955, and built a life centered on family and raising their three sons. Earl’s service in the Air Force took them to Michigan, the Philippines, North Dakota, Wyoming, Virginia, Alaska, and Texas before they eventually returned home to Colorado.

Joyce took pride in her administrative roles with Poudre School District and in dental offices before retiring in 1990. She was known for her dedication, wit, and genuine care for others.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, Joyce is survived by her three sons: Jordan, Robin, Christian, and five grandsons: Marshall, Taylor, Philip, Austin, and Alex. Nothing brought her more joy than watching her children and grandchildren compete in sports. Whether in the stands or on the sidelines, she was always their biggest supporter. In her later years, Joyce shared companionship with her loving partner Ralph Peterson.

She shared a special bond with her daughters-in-law, Mary Anna, Mary Elizabeth, and Michele, building many cherished memories together.

Joyce found joy in reading, book club gatherings, gardening, and playing games. A perfect night included dessert and board games with her grandsons, especially when she won, which was quite often.

Her laughter, steady presence, and unconditional love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Joyce’s caregiver, Cindy Boone, for her unwavering care, genuine friendship, and constant joy she shared with Joyce in the final years of her life. We treasure you more than words can say.

The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at MorningStar Senior Living for the compassion and care they provided during Joyce’s final chapter.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Allnutt Funeral Service.

Services will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026.

Visitation will take place at 11:00 a.m. at Drake Chapel, 650 W. Drake Road in Fort Collins, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m.

A committal service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Grandview Cemetery, 1900 W. Mountain Avenue, Fort Collins.

In place of flowers, please consider sending donations to the Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation.