Brenda Irene Ray, 75, of Jefferson City, passed away Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Jefferson City Manor Care Center.

She was born December 28, 1949, in Sullivan, Missouri, the daughter of Norman Jerome May and Cathern (Roehrs) Saunders.

She was united in marriage on March 2, 1968, to Walter Ray who preceded her in death on October 31, 1993.

Brenda worked for many years with Tread Co Steel Company in Washington, Missouri as a factory line worker and inspector.  She was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Holts Summit where she participated in the women’s Bible studies.  In her free time, Brenda enjoyed sewing and ceramics.

Survivors include her son, Les (Natasha) Ray, Jefferson City; three grandchildren, Derek Ray, Ashley Lambert, Tristyn Ray; ten great-grandchildren; three siblings, Norman (Laurie) May, Jr., Litchfield, IL; Bonney Moseley, Big Lake, AK; Kaye Lynn (Monte) Harding, North Pole, AK; two step-siblings, Kathy Coffman and Jane Behren; a half-brother, Sean May; and many nieces and nephews and other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; father, Norman May; her mother, Cathern and her husband of over 30 years William Saunders; a sister, Beverly Steif; and three brothers, Stanley Smith, Kenny Smith, Bradley Smith.

Visitation will be 9-10 a.m. Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Holts Summit.  A funeral service will follow at 10 a.m. with Pastor Nolan Wynn officiating.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday at Evergreen Cemetery, south of Beaufort at the intersection of Route 185 and N. Evergreen Loop.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City. trimblefunerals.com.