Lorna Ray

Lorna Ray, a vibrant spirit who graced the world with her compassionate heart and dry sense of humor, departed this life on June 26, 2025, in Thatcher, Arizona. Born on February 3, 1936, in the picturesque town of Luverne, Minnesota, Lorna exemplified a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to family, which she cherished above all else.

As a proud graduate of Luverne High School, class of 1954, Lorna embarked on a career as a Switch Board Operator with the Central Phone Company, where her warm personality and quick wit delighted both colleagues and customers alike. Throughout her life, she became well-known for her humorous catchphrases like "holy cow" and "Lordy be," which provided a glimpse into her joyful approach to life's many moments.

In 1973, Lorna celebrated one of her proudest accomplishments by marrying her sweetheart, Harvey Ray, in a heartfelt ceremony in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Their partnership flourished over the years, marked by cherished memories and shared adventures, including a memorable trip to San Diego that she often reminisced about. Together, they crafted a loving home filled with warmth, kindness, and the sound of laughter.

Lorna was a woman of many talents and interests. She found peace and creativity in cross stitch, knitting, and puzzle-solving, embracing each hobby with the same passion she brought to her relationships. Her love for music was evident in her skillful playing of the organ, filling her home with melodies that resonated with the love she held for her family.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Lorna's legacy lives on through her children: Deb (Cordell) Vaske, Deb (Kevin) Marco, Rick Ray, Kevin (Sandy) Brnjulson, Denise Alvarado, Ron (Kris) Ray, Jess (Jayne) Brnjulson, and Rodney (Renee) Ray. The love she poured into her family expanded grandly, nurturing the next generations with 22 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, each bearing witness to her unwavering dedication and affection.

In addition to her immediate family, Lorna shared a special bond with her sister Letta Kindt Matthiesen, a connection that served as a source of strength and solidarity throughout their lives. She will also be fondly remembered by her loyal pets, Peanut, Lady, and any animal that crossed her path, as they received her affection and care in abundance.

While Lorna's life will be profoundly missed, her spirit will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of those who knew her. She joins her beloved family members who have passed before her: her mother Anna Kindt Matthiesen, father Christian Matthiesen, and brother Merlin Pete, son Randy Ray, daughter Darcy Brnjulson, and son Kelly Brnjulson.

A memorial service to honor Lorna Ray's remarkable life will take place on August 17, 2025, at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Safford, Arizona, at 11:00 AM, where friends and family will gather to celebrate the memories and love that she gifted them throughout her journey in this world.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman, we take solace in her legacy—a testament to the power of compassion, humor, and an enduring love that echoes through the generations. Lorna Ray will forever reside in the hearts of those she touched.