Melba Ray

Melba I. Ray, 97, passed away peacefully on January 12th, 2025, at home with loved ones by her side.

Melba is survived by; daughters DiAnne Ray Zill (David) of Tucson AZ and Dawn Ray of Dubois WY, and son-in-law Terry Curtis (Susan) of Rochester MN; along with several loving cousins, 12 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Ray; brother Bob Lee, son Dick Ray; daughter Deborah Curtis, and granddaughter Kelly Jo Ray.

Melba was born on November 24th, 1927, in Walnut Grove Il, to Willis Lee and Blanche Kane. She resided in Rochester, MN, where she embraced her passions and cherished her family.

Melba was known for her deep faith and fierce love for her family, qualities that defined her strength and kindness throughout her life. She was an extremely thoughtful woman, always caring for the needs of others as she never forgot a birthday or anniversary. Melba found joy in faith, family, cooking, knitting, her 'Hoorah Sisters' and in nature.

Melba enjoyed music, especially the sounds of Neil Diamond which often filled her home. She also had a fondness for sports, particularly golf and baseball, which she enjoyed watching and discussing.

Her favorite place in the world was Leech Lake, where she created lasting memories with her loved ones. Melba and Kenneth E. Ray were married for 49 wonderful years, a relationship built on love and companionship that enriched her life and those around her.

Melba's legacy is one of strength, love, and kindness. She always prioritized family and friends; her thoughtful nature and unwavering faith provided comfort and inspiration to many.

Services will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, 5905 Silas Dent Road NW, Rochester, on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 11am with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. A luncheon will follow services. A graveside ceremony will be held in Bushnell, IL on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 1pm, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

In remembrance of Melba, the family requests donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church in Rochester, MN (cbcroch.org) or Mayo Clinic Hospice. A live stream of Melba's funeral will also be available by going to cbcroch.org. (Please reach out to family for help locating it if needed.)

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Ray family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.