Nancy Louise Ray

Nancy Louise “Punk” Ray, age 84, was born on May 8, 1941, in Springer, Oklahoma, to George Walter Hunter and Mary Colleen (Heartsill) Hunter. She passed away peacefully at her home in Wayne, Oklahoma, on February 23, 2026. Nancy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She will be remembered as a loving sister, devoted mother, proud “Grammy,” and faithful friend. Her warm greetings, generous spirit, and bright smile will live on in the hearts of many. She lived a full and creative life, always keeping her hands and heart busy. Nancy enjoyed painting, embroidery, music, and baking — especially her famous fried pies, which brought comfort and joy to family and friends alike. She loved attending family events, from birthdays and school plays to graduations, always present and cheering on those she loved. A strong and independent woman, Nancy believed in hard work and perseverance. If she did not know how to do something, she would take a class or research it in a book until she mastered it. She taught those around her the value of determination and that family always comes first. As a young woman, she lovingly helped raise her siblings during a time when her mother’s health was poor, demonstrating her lifelong dedication to family. Nancy enjoyed the simple pleasures of life — the refreshing taste of a Coca-Cola, sweet tea with “too much sugar”, and her firm belief that vinegar could fix just about anything. Above all, she was a child of God and we will one day reunite. She attended Wayne Baptist Church and Rosedale Baptist Church and was baptized at Payne Church. Her faith was an important part of her life, and her family takes comfort in the promise that they will one day reunite. On October 15, 1960, Nancy married the love of her life, James Donald Ray, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. Nancy dedicated many years to her work. She served as a nursing home aide, worked as a line worker at Glow Light and Kelwood, and retired in 2003 from York, where she worked in the air conditioning factory. She was known for her strong work ethic and commitment in every role she held. Nancy leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit, her lessons, and her love will remain with us always. Nancy was survived by her Sons, Russell Ray and wife Marilyn of Wayne, Oklahoma, Ronnie Ray of Rosedale, Oklahoma; Daughter, Regina Madden and husband Troy of Byars, Oklahoma; Brother, Walter Hunter and wife Peggy of Slaughtersville, Oklahoma; Sisters, Elizabeth Duff and husband Richard of Wayne, Oklahoma, Venita Vickers of Norman, Oklahoma, Paulette Almos of Noble, Oklahoma; ten grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren, and a host of other friends and family. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, James Donald Ray; Parents, George and Colleen Hunter; Granddaughter, Haley Ray; Brother, Bobby Jack Hunter; and Sister, Jo Ann Perkins. Services for Nancy will be on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at Wooster Funeral Home Chapel in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma with Troy Madden officiating. Visitation for Nancy will be Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 9:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Interment will follow at Antioch Cemetery. If you would like to send your condolences to the family you may do so at www.woosterfuneralhomes.com

Nancy Louise Ray

May 8, 1941 - February 23, 2026