Martha "Irene" Wray

Martha "Irene" Wray obituary, Barnes, KS

Martha "Irene" Wray

Martha Wray Obituary

Visit the Ward Funeral Home - Washington website to view the full obituary.

Martha “Irene” Wray, Barnes, KS, passed away October 15, 2025 at the Blue Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center in Blue Rapids.

Irene was born on October 12, 1933 in Kansas City, KS and was lovingly adopted by Arthur and Minnie (Hanson) Rosenberg, into a warm home and vibrant Swedish community on December 15, 1945.

On April 18, 1954, she married Wayne Wray and together they built a life that blessed them with two daughters, Vickie and Karen. Irene’s unwavering dedication to her family was evident as she thrived in various Northeast, KS communities, supporting her husband’s career and actively engaging with those around her. She was known for her kindness, strong community spirit and ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Irene leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a wide circle of friends and family who will miss her dearly.

Preceding her in death were her parents; beloved husband; and grandson-in-law.

Survivors include daughters, Vickie (Carl) Chalfant, Karen (Kent) Scheele both of Washington; grandchildren, Eric Stanton, Osborne, Tina Fischer, Hutchinson, Megan (Mike) Burgess, Silver Lake and Melinda Woodring, McLouth; and six great grandchildren.

A private family service took place.

A memorial fund is established and will be designated later by the family.  Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home, Washington, KS.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Ward Funeral Home - Washington

115 W 2nd St., Washington, KS 66968

Make a Donation
in Martha Wray's name

How to support Martha's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Martha Wray's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more