September 18, 1931 – April 18, 2019
Doreen ‘Dorks’ Christenson Ray was born in Mount Selinda, Zimbabwe (formerly known as Rhodesia) and was the second of three girls. Doreen and her sisters Joan and Onia, grew up on a working farm and went to a Catholic convent school in Zimbabwe. She married Gordon Charles Ray 68 years ago and they raised their four children, Sandra, Johnny, Mark and Garry in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Doreen was a loving mother, sister, daughter, grandmother and a wonderful friend to many. She was a faithful pen pal – always taking time to stay connected, to remember and acknowledge birthdays and special events in people’s lives. Doreen made close friends wherever she lived due to her thoughtful, selfless way and her genuine interest in the lives of others. As much as she loved people, Doreen actually loved dogs more. Her children often accused her of having the dogs as her #1 priority whereupon she would immediately respond ‘as it should be’. Doreen had a witty sense of humor, a gentle spirit and cared for all living things and would often ‘rescue’ a spider from inside the house and place it gently outside to be ‘free’.
Doreen was an accomplished musician who taught piano, guitar and the piano accordion. Doreen and her husband played in a band for many years. She was interested in genealogy and learning about her family’s ancestry. Doreen was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints both in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and in Broomall, PA. She enjoyed keeping up with the church members, their lives, activities and their families.
Doreen immigrated with her husband Gordon to Paoli, PA in 2002. She is survived by her younger sister Onia Potter of South Africa, her children Sandra Phillips (the late Chris Phillips) of Zimbabwe, Johnny Ray of Paoli, Mark Ray (Morgan) of Paoli and Garry Ray (Debbie) of New Zealand; 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
"A Celebration of Life" memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 4th at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 721 Paxon Hollow Road, Broomall. Friends are also invited to meet with the family ahead of the service in the Relief Society Room starting at 10:00 am. A luncheon will be provided after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send a donation to The Clinic of Phoenixville https://www.theclinicpa.org/ an organization which provides healthcare to the uninsured in the area or your favorite charity.
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