Mary Jane Ray was born in Fayette County, Texas on April 23, 1938, to the parentage of Walter and Claudia Kalmus. She attended Catholic schools and went on to graduate from LaGrange High School in 1957.

From then on, she moved around a lot, always stating, "wherever I'm at is home." She had different professions from seamstress to school bus driver. No matter what she was doing at the time she worked hard at it and perfected it.

She was steadfast in her faith. She was raised Catholic but wasn't afraid to walk into any church that was near her to praise the Lord. She would often say, "as long as Jesus is there, it doesn't matter."

She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Claudia Kalmus, husband Wesley C. Ray, two sons, Weldon and Wesley M. Ray, grandson Wesley Michael Ray, and great-grandson Donovan Ray.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her daughter Christiana (Quincy) Thomas; son Gary (Debbie) Kalmus; eight grandchildren: Leon (Destinee), Quincy, Jr. (Brenda), Quan'tina (Tremayne), Qua'mari Qua'ne, Dennis (Sarah), Bridget (Cody), and Noel; six great-grandchildren: Leon, Mia, Kalina, Michael, Matthew, Kayleigh, and a host of other relatives, and friends.