Marilyn Ray

Marilyn Laurene Ray, age 94, of Nevada, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Story County Senior Care in Nevada.
A funeral service honoring Marilyn's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home, 1418 Fawcett Pkwy in Nevada. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, also at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Maxwell Cemetery in Maxwell.
Marilyn was born on February 24, 1931, in rural Polk County, Iowa, the daughter of Verne and Dorothy (Carr) Holsinger. She graduated from Maxwell High School in 1949 and soon after married Vaughn "Parke" Ray on August 21, 1949, at the Maxwell Presbyterian Church. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and community.
Marilyn had a passion for caring for others. She furthered her education and earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree from Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in 1972. She devoted her nursing talents to Story County Hospital, touching countless lives with her compassion and dedication. Marilyn also worked as a secretary for many area businesses including the ISU Extension.
A longtime member of Central Presbyterian Church in Nevada, Marilyn found joy in her faith and community. She nurtured her creativity through hobbies such as reading, sewing, and knitting, sharing her talents with family and friends.
Marilyn is survived by her loving children, Kyle (Alvin) Ray-Ceplecha of Nevada, Lori (Dennis) Mensing of Nevada, and Sterling (Elaine) Ray of Altoona; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Harlan Holsinger of Florida; her sister, Carol (Kenneth) Gould of Florida; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Parke Ray in 2014, and her sister, Marjory Brown.
Marilyn will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and lifelong devotion to her family and community. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Memorial contributions may be made to Suncrest Hospice or Story County Senior Care in memory of Marilyn Ray.
Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with the arrangements for Marilyn. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com