MERRIE-LEE RAY

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Merrie-Lee Camilla Ray (née Nyman), age 74, of Nipigon. Merrie-Lee passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, with her family by her side.

Merrie-Lee was born and raised in Nipigon and spent her entire life in the community she loved so deeply. She worked at the Royal Bank for 35 years before enjoying many years of retirement. During that time, she was very active in the Catholic Women's League, especially helping at funerals work she took great pride in.

Merrie-Lee was predeceased by her parents, Eric and Gouldie Nyman; her siblings Carla Jackson, Charlie Osterberg, Paul Nyman, Sonja Legacy, Inga Ray, and Astrid Nyman (in infancy); as well as several brothers- and sisters-in-law, and her dear friend Ruth Borg.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 55 years, Vern; her children Vern Jr. (Stacey), Rachel (Glen), Michael (Patricia), and Alyssa (Shannon); and her grandchildren Tamara, Stephen, Zachary (Shy), Matthew (Cassidy), Abigail, Elora, Gracie, Camilla, Eric, and Ella. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Trey, Kai, Athena, Amara, and Jax. Merrie-Lee is also survived by her brother Ted Nyman, sister Leslie Rendell, special niece Judy Gillis, and many Nyman relatives in Canada and Finland.

Merrie-Lee cherished her time at camp in the summer with Dad, especially being out on the pontoon boat with their grandkids. In the winter, she could often be found watching the Leafs with Dad or travelling near and far to watch her children and grandchildren play hockey. One time she even took Alyssa and Tamara to the provincial hockey championships in Mississauga just the three of them.

She always looked forward to gathering with her siblings and their families at the annual Nyman Christmas party. Merrie-Lee loved baking, especially at Christmas, and never turned down a baking request from her grandchildren. Above all else, her family was her world. Her greatest joy was her husband Vern, their four children, and all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each of us held a special place in her heart, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at Nipigon Hospital Long-Term Care for the compassionate care they provided over the past two years. A special thank-you to Robbie for his kindness and support during this difficult time you are an exceptional doctor and a true friend to our family.

A Funeral Mass for Merrie-Lee will be held at the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Nipigon at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026 with inurnment to follow at Cliffside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nipigon Hospital Long-Term Care.

Condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca