Marcia “Ann” Ray

Marcia “Ann” Ray, 70, of Wasilla died Nov. 26, 2017 of heart complications. Ann was born May 24, 1947, in Glendale, California, to Lloyd and Helen Howard as the second oldest daughter of ten children. She was raised in California then later in Hurricane, Utah. She graduated from Hurricane High School then continued her education at Dixie State College in St. George Utah. She met her husband Dean and was married Aug. 19, 1966, in St. George, Utah. Together they moved to Skagway, Alaska, in 1978 for Dean to take a teaching job. There, Ann was part of the school board and also began baking breads and pastries to raise money for building an LDS chapel in Skagway. Her baked goods were in such high demand that she opened a bakery called “The Gold Miners Pantry.”

Ann moved to Wasilla in 1986 and worked for Wendy’s, Eat’s, KFC, NYE Toyota, NYE Ford, Tony Chevrolet, in 2006 began work for Alaska Sales and Service as a Finance Manager in Wasilla and then eventually the Anchorage store. Ann worked hard to take care of her family. She was selfless and dedicated her life to all of her children and grandchildren and made sure their needs were taken care of. She loved to travel and would say ‘yes’ to any adventure. She loved her home and was meticulous about her flowers and decorations. Her home was welcoming with love, warmth and food. She was the foundation, the rock, the glue, our best friend, and meant everything to her family. She has inspired us all.

Ann is survived by her husband Dean Ray of Wasilla, one son, three daughters, one daughter-in- law, and one son- in-law. Survivors are Brandon and Sharon Ray of Wasilla, Alaska; Susie Ray of Wasilla, Leanne Ray of Wasilla, Alaska; Deana and Doug Bowen of Las Vegas, Nevada. Six Grand-children; Makayla Sierra, Raylee Bowen, Jonah Sierra, Katee Ray, Alicesyn Bowen, Brett Bowen. Her four sisters Loraine, Becky, Lolly and Mary; five brothers Alan, Danny, Richard, Hugh, and David. Ann was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Helen Howard and by her son Brett Ray.