Marilyn Ann Eckley Ray

Marilyn Ann Eckley Ray passed peacefully in her Schertz, Texas home on April 20, 2019. She is survived by her husband Foy; sister Doris Eckley; children Donna Howe (Larry), Alan Ray (Carol), and Joe Ray (Wilma); grandchildren Rick (Carrie), Ben (Katie), Colt, Maverick (Melanie), Joseph, and Jerry; great grandchildren Lauren, Samantha, Daniel, James, JJ, and Remmi.; and nieces Julie Miller and Shelley Lott. Her interment will be at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park Cemetery, New Braunfels, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Habitat for Humanity.

Marilyn was born on April 7, 1934 in Toulon, Stark County, Illinois to Fred and Rena Eckley. She, her two older sisters, Arlene and Doris, and her younger brother, Wayne were raised on the family’s farm outside of Wyoming, Illinois. She graduated from high school in 1951.

While working in Washington, D.C., Marilyn met her future husband, Foy Dale Ray, an Airman Third Class stationed at Andrews Air Force Base. They married on July 30, 1955. Over the years, they were blessed with three children.

Marilyn was a pillar of the community, who lived her life with her feet planted firmly on the ground. She strove to ensure that everyone she encountered—family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and others—were well cared for and supported. Her strong work ethic, pragmatism, and eagerness to serve others touched innumerable people throughout her life.

Marilyn was a devoted wife and mother, a dedicated friend to many, a talented artisan, and a hard worker. Her companionship and positive influence will be sorely missed by everyone whose life she touched.