Marilyn Ray

Marilyn Jo Ericksen Ray passed away February 5, 2011, while comforting her children and her husband. She was cheerful and spiritual to the very end and tarried long enough to teach her family once again compassion, patience, love, and several new skills. Alzheimer's disease robs a family twice. At first it slowly takes away the capabilities and persona of a loved one, and then it takes away the person that the family has learned to love through their dedicated care and service. Those wanting to help conquer this dread disease may wish to donate to the Alzheimer's Association.

Born March 13, 1940, she was the firstborn of Joseph Durell Ericksen and Leola Johnson Ericksen both of whom preceded her in death. Siblings include Charlotte (husband David) Nelson of Providence, Utah; Leo (wife Susan) Ericksen of Logan, Utah; and Joy (husband Steve) Sadler of Tremonton, Utah.

Marilyn will be missed especially by her husband of 49 years, Russell Lynn Ray. They were married in the Logan Temple on November 22, 1961.

They had five children, Edward (wife Yuko) Ray of Kani-Shi, Japan; Jeanine (husband Darren) Rhoton of San Antonio, Texas; Carol (husband Rick) Nef of Layton, Utah; LaLine Ray and Jonathan Ray of Logan, Utah. Because of her efforts, these children all became sons and daughters in which their parents were well pleased. Her six grandchildren include Sho Ray, a multi-lingual student studying in Tokyo; Go Ray, who recently tested out of two years of high school; Spencer Rhoton, an Air Force Cadet on an LDS mission in Tokyo; Caleb Rhoton, an irrepressible junior high student; the much beloved 5 year old Maren Rhoton, the only female in this sextet; and 3 year old Zachary Rhoton, a bundle of energy that has no end.

A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served three times as Relief Society President, headed the South Farmington Utah Family History Center, and for years taught Family History. She was also active in cub scouts. She and her husband served a mission at the Logan Tabernacle Family History Center. Her last service was as a tour guide at the Logan Tabernacle.

She always had a soft shoulder. She was easy to talk to and many people chose to do soñeven strangers would bare their souls to her. She helped others solve many of life's problems and soothed over many more. She was quick to discern the goodness of people and could always look beyond their faults. She often stood up for the underdog and the under-privileged.

The family wishes to express sincere appreciation to the numerous nurses and staff that attended to her last needs. We also would like to thank her extended family and the members of the Logan 32nd Ward.

Funeral services will be at 12 noon on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, in the Logan 32nd Ward chapel, 350 West 700 South, Logan, Utah. Friends and family may visit on Tuesday, February 8th, 2011, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Allen-Hall Mortuary and from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. at the chapel prior to services. Burial will be in the Logan Cemetery. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.allenmortuaries.net .