Obituary of Doris W. Ray

Mrs. Doris W. Ray, 93, a lifelong East Herkimer resident, entered eternal rest on Friday, January 21, 2022, at Valley Health Services. She was born on August 31, 1928, in West Sand Lake, New York, the daughter of the late William and Mary (Trout) Wengert and was educated in Herkimer schools. Doris married her childhood sweetheart, William M. “Bill” Ray on September 11, 1948, in the First United Methodist Church in Herkimer with the Rev. Fred Cotnam, officiating. As a couple, Bill and Doris were extremely well-suited to one another: in particular, they shared a deep and steadfast devotion to one another and to family life, a dedication which served as a strong and secure foundation for their relationship. Bill passed away on February 25, 2006. At a young age, Doris worked with New York Telephone. She later worked the switchboard at Herkimer Memorial Hospital, and retired as Deputy Town Clerk, Town of Herkimer. Her family owned and operated "Patterson's Garage" in East Herkimer following her father- in-law’s retirement. A loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, she was an exemplary role model personifying a good work ethic, and personal compassion. One of her favorite pastimes was going to Saratoga and Vernon Downs. She also enjoyed her fishing trips to Lake Ontario and her sightseeing trips to Maine. She spent personal time crocheting. She was an important and positive influence in the lives of his family and friends. She attended the First United Methodist Church, Herkimer-Little Falls. At one time she was active with the Eastern Star. Survivors include her beloved family, her sons: William W. Ray and wife Elaine C., and Michael R. Ray; her cherished grandchildren: Alicia Ray (Joe Moncor), Amanda Ray (William Hoyne), Karlene Peck (James Peck) and Kimberly Sexton (Thomas Sexton), great-grandchildren, Hailey Rae Peck, Easton James Peck, Makenzie Rae Sexton, and Abigail Theresa Sexton and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also surviving are her In-Laws: Kenneth C. Ray and wife Hideko of Herkimer and close neighbors and friends. She was predeceased by her loving son, Scott K. Ray, her sisters, Marion Cristman (Dean), Helen Henkel (Robert), and In-Laws James & Margaret English. The family would like to invite those wishing to donate in memory of Doris to consider the East Herkimer Fire Department, 193 Main Road, Herkimer, NY 13350 OR to the First United Methodist Church of Herkimer/Little Falls, 127 North Prospect Street, Herkimer, NY 13350. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The Ray family invites relatives and friends to visitation at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, on Friday, January 28, 2022, from 4-6 p.m. The funeral will commence at 6:00pm at the conclusion of calling hours from the chapel of the funeral home. She will be laid to rest later in the spring in Mt. View Memorial Gardens, town of Little Falls. The Ray family has entrusted Doris’ final wishes to Harry and Kevin Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com. In keeping with the family’s wishes, wearing of masks will be required at calling hours. Thank you.