Nancy M. (nee Callahan) Ray, 79, of Sarasota, Florida, and formally of Oldenburg, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family and community. She is the daughter of Charles and Ann (nee McCormick) Callahan. She married Preston (Chip) Ray on October 11, 1975, in Nashua, New Hampshire. A devoted educator, faithful servant, and cherished wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy spent her life nurturing young minds and giving generously of her time to those around her.
Nancy attended the University of New Hampshire and went on to graduate from Rivier College in Nashua, New Hampshire. She dedicated her career to Catholic education, serving as a teacher and later as a school principal, where her love for children and her passion for helping young people grow and thrive touched countless lives. Her deep Catholic faith was the foundation of everything she did, and it inspired and encouraged all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Beyond the classroom, Nancy poured her heart into her community. She volunteered her time and talents with the local YMCA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Character Council, and the Hillforest Historical Association in Aurora, Indiana. Wherever she went, she brought warmth, dedication, and a genuine care for others.
Nancy is survived by her loving husband, Preston (Chip) Ray; her sons, Preston (Stephanie) and Christopher Ray; her brother-in-law Charles Ray, her grandsons, Aidan and Adam Ray; and her beloved nieces and nephews, who all held a special place in her heart.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ann Callahan, and her brothers, John and baby Charles.
Nancy will be remembered for her boundless love for her family, her lifelong commitment to teaching and shaping young lives, her generous spirit of service, and the quiet strength of her faith that guided her every day. Her legacy lives on in the many students, family members, and friends whose lives she touched.
May she rest in eternal peace.
Visitation is Wednesday, August 12th, from 3 – 6 p.m., at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, August 13th at 10 a.m., at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg, with Fr. E.J. Stein OFM officiating. The burial will immediately follow at Holy Family Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be given to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern Indiana or the Sisters of St. Francis. If unable to attend the visitation, memorials can be sent in c/o Weigel Funeral Home, PO Box 36, Batesville, Indiana 47006. For online condolences, please go to www.weigelfh.com.