Mary Ann Ray

Mary Ann (Wagner) Ray, 85, of Fresno, passed away September 30, 2011 at Nazareth House. Born September 23, 1926 in Yankton, South Dakota, she was the oldest daughter of the late Edward and Rose Wagner. She graduated from St. Vincent School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse and married Robert L. Ray in Sioux City, Iowa.

She worked in the nursing field for 25 years, while living in seven different locations and raising eight children. She was a long time member of Our Lady of Victory Church, attending daily Mass, and volunteered for many organizations throughout the years. She was a former member of Belmont Country Club and enjoyed golf, walking, cooking and watching football. Her deep faith provided comfort in her life and will guide her on her journey home.

The family would like to thank the caring staff at Nazareth House.

She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years; two sisters, Colleen Wagner and Katherine Rikli; two children, Jennifer McColl and Jeffrey Ray; and daughter-in-law, Sheree Ray.

Surviving are six children, twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren; Julie D'Angelo and her husband, Thomas, New Cumberland, PA.; Gregory and his sons, Ryan and Sean, Fresno; Marcia Shaw and her children, Brent, Colleen, Darren and Jamie, Santa Rosa; daughter-in-law, Becky and her children, Michele, Katie and Jared, Fresno; Monica Lovgren and her husband, Keith, and their children, Nicholas, Natalie and Noelle, Fresno; Brian and Mark, Fresno; brothers, Robert, Fort Myers, FL.; James, Mesa, AZ.; in addition to many loving nieces, nephews and other family members.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Nazareth House, Our Lady of Victory Church or San Joaquin Memorial High School.