Katherine Elizabeth Ray (89) of Windsor

Katherine Elizabeth Ray, affectionately known as Nan to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2023, at the age of 89.

Born on June 27, 1934, in Windsor, Illinois, to Wilbur "B.I." and Elsie (Frizzell) Carman, Nan lived a full and vibrant life, deeply rooted in the community she loved. She was a 1952 graduate of Windsor High School and a lifelong member of the Windsor Christian Church. Nan worked at the former Brown Shoe Factory in Sullivan and later at the Windsor Food Center, where she was a familiar and friendly face to all who entered. Nan loved bowling and never missed an opportunity for family get-togethers, especially when it involved her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A fervent St. Louis Cardinals fan, Nan's enthusiasm for the game was infectious. In recognition of her community spirit, she was honored to be selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2023 Windsor Harvest Picnic.

Nan's legacy began with her marriage to Clarence Herbert "Scotch" Ray on November 13, 1953, a loving union that lasted 52 years. Together, they built a family, welcoming their daughters Marla (Gary) Robinson of Windsor and Teresa (Terry Goodwin) Ray of Sullivan. Nan's joy multiplied with the birth of her grandsons, Heath (Tera) Sims of Sullivan and Hank (Mary) Sims of Windsor, and later swelled with the arrival of her great-grandchildren, Katelyn, Christian, Lillie, Taylor, and Claire, and two great-greatgrandchildren, Remington and Falyn. She is also survived by her sister, Patsy Bragg; niece, Tina (Brian) Wright; nephew, Jerry (Robyn) Carman; great-niece, Halle Wright; three step-grandchildren, Sabrina (Bobby), Crystal (Shawn), and Rob (Elizabeth); and seven step-great-grandchildren, Landon, Savannah, Mia, Bella, McKenzie, Reese, and Keegan. Nan's love extended to her cherished granddogs, ManiMan, Belle, Dexter, Princess, and Kassi, who provided companionship and joy throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, and two brothers, Frank and James Carman.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 23, 2023, in Windsor Cemetery. The service will be presided over by Reverend Richard Eident. Memorials in may be given in Nan’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Disabled Veterans National Foundation or the donor’s favorite charity and mailed to Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 52, Windsor, IL 61957. Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story by clicking here.