Obituary of Dovie Ray

Dovie L. Ray March 21, 1927 - July 12, 2008 Dovie L. Ray, age 81, of Monroe, passed away unexpectedly at 8:43am, Saturday, July 12, 2008 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. She was born on March 21, 1927 in Harlan County, Kentucky from the union of Lijah Dye and Nora (Jones) Dye. She was married to Ernest Ray. Dovie moved to Michigan in 1964 from Harlan County. Dovie was a homemaker and had the responsibility of raising nine children. Her family though warmly refers to her as the "Professional Nin". She loved to watch and spend time with her grandchildren, and they were her true passion. Preparing meals was something she shared often, and she didn't need a special occasion to gather her family together. She especially enjoyed the interaction with her family that her cooking provided. Another of her favorite pastimes was playing bingo. She taught her family to play and often took them along. She played everywhere she could find a game. "Garage-saleing" became a common occurence. Most of her garage-sale purchases were small trinkets, treasures, and gifts for her brood of grandchildren. Dovie was formerly a devoted member of Monroe Full Gospel Church. She leaves to cherish her memory and amazing legacy including seven loving children: Clark Ray, Louise Ray, Orvel "John" Ray, Ellen Ray, Jerry (Evelyn) Ray, Ernest (Michelle) Ray Jr., and Joyce (Clint) Cooper; and a beloved son-in-law: Gary Pendleton Sr. all of Monroe; a brother: Harold Dye of Harlan County, Kentucky; twenty-three grandchildren; forty-eight great grandchildren with one on the way; and one great-great grandchild. Her passing was preceded by her parents; a daughter: Barbara Pendleton; a son: David Ray; a daughter-in-law: Judy Ray; two grandchildren: Tracy Pridemore McClanahan and Bridgette Ellison; one sister: Millie Dye; and six brothers: Willie, Cecil, Ernest, Charles, Ed and Sam Dye. Family and Friends will gather Monday; July 14, 2008 from 1-8pm at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Frenchtown Township, (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am Tuesday; July 15, 2008, also at Merkle Funeral Service. Pastor Gary Pickrell will officiate. Procession to Woodland Cemetery, Monroe for burial will follow. For those desiring the family has suggested memorials be made to the Charity of the Donors Choice. Online words of inspiration and comfort may be sent to the Merkle website at www.merklefuneralservice.com and selecting the Life Stories page.