Neta Marie Ray

RAPELJE - Neta M. Ray, 78, passed away July 30, 2014, at Beartooth Health Care in Columbus.

She was born in Park City on Dec. 16, 1935, to Edna and Ralph Hoagland. Neta went to Hailstone Basin (where her mother taught), Judith Gap and graduated from Rapelje High School. She also attended college in Bozeman.

Neta was married to her neighborhood sweetheart, Robert E. Ray, on March 25, 1952. They ranched together on the family's ranch. She was known for her soft-spoken, warm, loving personality and never complained. Neta was a great cook and was always preparing meals for hired help and welcoming friends into our home. She enjoyed her children's school activities, (chaperoning for many of them), traveling, playing cards, taking walks, dancing and the Home Extension Club. She had a great love for her grandchildren, her pets and chocolate.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother Bob.

Neta is survived by her three children, Rebecca Lutgen (Melvin), Randy Ray (Missi), Rhonda Ray (fiancé John); grandson, Robby; step grandchildren, Julie, Stacey, Max; and step great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank every one of you that helped with Neta's care.

Her Celebration of Life will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014, at Smith Funeral Chapel in Columbus.

Donations can be made to Rapelje Scholarship Fund or charity of choice.