Cheryl Ann (Modesitt) Ray

Cheryl Ann Ray, 61, died unexpectedly on Friday, September 16, 2022 at Union Hospital surrounded by her husband and family. Cheryl was born on July 23, 1961 in Brazil to John L. and Marilyn J. (McCall) Modesitt. She graduated from Brazil High School in the class of 1979, and was a long time resident of Brazil. 

Cheryl was an absolute pillar to her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Russell A. Ray Sr., married 34 years and together almost 40; her beloved children, Christopher D. (Jeanetta) Hill, John J. Lawhorn, Russell A. Ray Jr.; mother, Marilyn Modesitt; twin sister, Carol S. Gehrke; brother, Jeffrey A. Modesitt; loved and adored  grandchildren, James Bussing Hill, Kirsten Hill, Owen Hill, Dakota Hill, Brayden Lawhorn, Caleb Lawhorn, Madilyn Lawhorn, Eric Ray, Seth Ray; nieces, Mistina Modesitt, Chelsea Bryan; nephews, Chad Godsey, Bradley Godsey; mother-n-law, Delores Ray; as well as an endless list of extended family and lifelong friends. 

Cheryl is preceded in death by her father, John Modesitt, who she so dearly loved; paternal grandparents, William “Archie” and Eunice Modesitt; maternal grandparents, Clarence and Pearl McCall. 

Cheryl held many titles; wife, mother, sister, friend, but no title was she more proud of than “Mamaw”, and it is through the hearts and minds of those grandchildren that her spirit will stay alive. 

All who knew Cheryl knows she was never happier than when she was walking the sandy shores of Clearwater Beach, Florida and her wishes are for her family to release her with love in the beautiful waters there. Cheryl lived a happy and fulfilling life, making lasting memories with so many and will be dearly missed by all. 

“Do not grieve for I did not die…..I became the sand along the shore, the waves on the sea, the voice that resonates from the shells.” 

Moore Funeral Home in Brazil has been entrusted with Cheryl’s cremation arrangements. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.