Judy Kay Ray

Judy Kay Ray, a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on March 16, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on June 6, 1961, in Lawrence, Kansas, Judy was known for her kind and friendly nature, always making those around her feel welcomed and loved.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin Ray and Lucille Houk, her husband, Benjamin Nioce, her siblings, Christina Ray and Daniel Ray, and a niece Anglea McGhee. She is survived by her sisters, Norma VanCleave of Topeka, Kansas, and sister-in-law, Paula Ray of Topeka, Kansas; her brother Thomas (Shelia) Ray of Topeka, Kansas; her children, Shawna Ray (Dennis Davenport), Steven Bouton, and Melissa Bouton, all of Topeka, Kansas; her grandchildren, Dominick Ray, Brittni Grogg, Kayce Prchal, Zenna Gabehart, Blake Bouton, Qamauara Evans, Rhayn Counts, Breonna Bouton, Joseph Bouton, Tena Bouton, and Anthony Whitfold; her great-grandson, Waylon Thompson; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Judy completed her 8th-grade education at Curtis Junior High. Throughout her life, she held various jobs, including working as a laundry attendant at Continental Laundry and Diaper Service, a housekeeper at Red Roof Inn in Holton, Kansas, and at Harrah's Prairie Band Casino, which is now called Prairie Band Casino & Resort in Mayetta, Kansas. Judy's most recent job was as a laundry attendant at Stormont-Vail Regional Hospital, where she worked for 19 years before retiring in May of 2021 to stay at home and care for her youngest daughter's three children while her daughter worked.

Judy had a passion for life and enjoyed a variety of interests. She loved going to dirt track races, playing on pool leagues, garage saleing, and playing bingo. Most of all, she cherished spending time with her family and friends, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who knew her.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing Judy were touched by her loving, kind, and friendly spirit. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special and welcomed, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In honor of Judy's life, a celebration of life service will be held at a later date, allowing loved ones to come together and remember the beautiful person that she was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Judy's name.

Judy's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at Stormont-Vail Regional Hospital for their care and support during her illness, as well as to all the friends and family who have offered their love and condolences during this difficult time. Judy's light and love will continue to shine through those who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by all.