1944 ~ 2024
LAKE LEELANAU – Jessie Lynn Ray, 80, of Lake Leelanau, passed away on November 10, 2024, in Traverse City.
Born on March 23, 1944, in Pansy, Kentucky, she was the daughter of Jesse and Ailene (Fee) Lundy. On March 20, 1965, in Flint, Michigan, she married the love of her life, Larry L. Ray, who survives her.
Jessie and Larry shared an inseparable bond, doing everything side by side—from the early years when she sent him countless letters while he was away on basic training, to later days spent together outdoors, morel mushroom hunting, relaxing on their pontoon boat, watching countless sunsets from their deck on Lake Leelanau, and exploring various parks of the area.
Jessie dedicated 30 years as an executive secretary at Delphi, where she was known for her commitment and professionalism. During retirement she enjoyed volunteering and being involved with different groups in the area. Her family cherished her delicious cooking and baking, especially around the holidays when Jessie transformed her home into a scene straight from a magazine, complete with festive decor and a beautifully set table. She also enjoyed gardening around her home with the countless flowers she cherished, creating a beautiful space where family and friends gathered.
She was a beloved wife, mother, motherin- law, and “Nana” to her granddaughters. She was truly an amazing person with the kindest and most loving heart. She dedicated her life to family and making sure we were supported in whatever we did and that we never felt anything other than loved. She always put others before herself in more ways than we will ever know.
Jessie is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Larry; her son, John (Debbie) Ray; her granddaughters, Madison and Jenna Ray; her sisters, Linda (Paul) Rye and Gwen ( Jim) Stebbins; and her brotherin- law, Bob Greene.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Barbara Greene, and an infant sibling.
Memorial contributions in Jessie’s honor may be directed to the Lake Leelanau Lake Association, lakeleelanau.org A celebration of Jessie’s life will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 23 at the V.I Grill 201 N. Saint Joseph St. Suttons Bay, MI 49682.
Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info.
Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
