Susan Anita Ray
Susan Anita Ray, 75 of Bourbon, MO, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Cuba Manor.
Susan Anita known as Anita by her family and friends, was born on January 10, 1949, in Washington, MO, to Elroy and Juanita (Johnson) Thornhill.
Anita was united in marriage to James L. Ray on October 15, 1966, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love, challenges, and triumphs. After Jim's return from his deployment to Vietnam, they established their home in Bourbon, a place that would be filled with lifelong memories and the sounds of a growing family.
Anita worked in St. Louis until the birth of their children, Brian, Teresa, Leslie, Kevin, and Brandon, at which point she devoted herself to being a nurturing stay-at-home mom.
As her children found their own paths, Anita channeled her passion and energy into a successful career in real estate. Employed by Century 21, she became a respected figure within the Franklin and Crawford County communities, demonstrating her dedication and expertise with grace and professionalism.
Anita loved to spend time outdoors mowing grass, tending to her garden, and caring for her catfish. She and Jim shared a love for camping at Bull Shoals Lake and treasured their family trips to Texas, visiting Charlotte Oliver. Anita was also an avid yardsaler and never turned down a good deal. She also had a knack for all things baking and cooking.
Anita is survived by her children, Brian Ray of Sullivan, MO, Teresa Lawrence of Bourbon, MO, Kevin Ray of Madina, Ohio, Brandon Ray of Chicago, IL; a daughter in law, Colleen Ray; 7 grandchildren: Corey Lawrence and significant other RJ Bailey, Craig Lawrence and significant other Jinnon Levart, Christopher Lawrence and significant other Joey Knuckles, Chris Ray, Taylor Kita and husband Justin, Madison Ray and fiancé Jacob Pecaut and Ian Ray; two brothers, Danny Thornhill and wife Carol of Arizona, and David Thornhill of New Mexico; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Anita was preceded in death by her husband, James L. Ray; son, Leslie Ray; parents, Elroy and Juanita Thornhill; and one sister, Kathy Thornhill.
Funeral services will be 1 PM, Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, Missouri with Pastor Jim Umfress officiating.
Visitation will be 11 AM – 1 PM, Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.
Friends may send their online condolences to Anita’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.