Sharon Ray

Sharon Kay Ray, age 81, of Morris, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on September 12, 1943, in Burns, Kansas, to Ted and Ruby Laymon, Sharon grew up in a close-knit family that shaped her into the strong, spirited, and loving woman she became. She married the love of her life, Richard Ray, and together they shared 65 beautiful years filled with laughter, challenges, and unwavering devotion.

Sharon's life was defined by her love for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose home was always warm and welcoming. She loved cooking for Richard, keeping her kitchen spotless, and-most of all-spending time playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To her family, she was a safe place, a source of wisdom, and a steady anchor. To friends, she was fun to be around, a "tough cookie" with a heart of gold, and truly "a mother to all." Many knew her simply as "Grandma" or "Grandma Great," titles she wore with joy and pride.

Sharon worked for many years at the Butler County DMV and later as a cook at Northern Heights School in Allen, Kansas. While she found meaning in her work, her most cherished and important role was caring for her family-a calling she fulfilled with tireless dedication and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Ruby Laymon; her son, Richard E. Ray; her daughter, Terri A. Hayes; one sister; and five brothers.

She is survived by her loving husband, Richard Ray; son Ron Ray and his partner Ann; daughter Linda Anderson and husband Greg; son-in-law Dave Hayes; nine grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Sharon's love, humor, and strength will live on in the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain a guiding light for her family and friends.

Services have been entrusted to Schaudt Funeral Service. Friends and family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com.