Shirley Ray

Shirley Jane (Schafer) Ray entered eternal rest Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020 at Creston Specialty Care in Creston.

A Celebration of Life sunset service will be 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2020, at Pearson Family Funeral Service and Cremation Center in Creston, Rev. Tony Thurston, officiating. Shirley requested a social gathering to follow in the community room of the funeral home. A private Inurnment will be held at Graceland Cemetery in Creston.

In lieu of memorial contributions, your presence at her service is requested. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.

Shirley was born Nov. 9, 1936, to Ralph and Fern (Rosenbaugh) Schafer in Creston. She graduated from Creston High School, Creston Junior College and Memphis State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in education and a Master’s degree in special education.

On April 19, 1957, Shirley married Ensign Willard Douglas Ray, the son of William and Grace (Hoskinson) Ray at First Christian Church in Creston. Shirley was a teacher, military wife and farmer’s wife. She taught school in Iowa, California and Tennessee. Shirley retired from the Creston Public School system.

“To my husband and best friend, Doug, thank you for loving me.”

“To our parents, thank you for your guidance.”

“To family and friends, thank you for being in my life.”

“To the parents of my students, thank you for trusting me with your precious gift – your child.”

“To my students, you gave me far more than I gave you. Remember, I love you more because I’m bigger.”

O Jesus, thank you for –

• Being the canoe that holds me in the sea of life.

• Being the steer that keeps me straight.

• Being the outrigger that supports me in time of great temptation.

• Letting your spirit be my sail that carries me through each day.

• Keeping my body strong so I can paddle steadfastly in the long voyage of life, Amen.