Eleanor Sue (Allen) Ray was called back to God peacefully and after enjoying an ice cream and strawberries with her family on June 25, 2024 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
She was born October 29, 1930 in Hamilton County, Illinois to Marshall Elbert Allen and Violet Jewell (Hale) Allen. She was fiercely committed to the well-being of her family and adored by them; especially her sisters and lifelong friends Joann Satterfield and Donna Schuster, and her brother Bob Allen.
Eleanor graduated from McLeansboro High School in 1949. Those who knew her would reflect that she was a kind and humble person who was friendly and pleasant to all.
She married Charles Albert Ray of Hamilton County in Piggott, Arkansas on February 15, 1952. She was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker, showcasing her gentle nature to create and maintain a comfortable home, always filled with the smells of a home-cooked meal, and an inviting living room for a nice chat.
Eleanor is survived by her son, Steve (Kati) Ray of Poplar Bluff, MO; grandchildren Charlie Ray of Lake Saint Louis, MO; Elizabeth (Jake) Kowalik of Foristell, MO; and Blane Ray of Poplar Bluff, MO. She is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Cohen Kowalik who brought so much joy to her life. She poured into her immediate family with compassion and a willingness to provide unwavering support during both trials and celebrations. Her consistency and love offered a unique cheer and solace to the generations of her children.
In addition, she is survived by her sister, Joann Satterfield of Marion, IL and her brother, Bob (Judy) Allen of McLeansboro, IL. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews; all of whom could depend on an annual birthday card including two pieces of Juicy Fruit gum taped next to her signature.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 54 years, and her daughter-in-law, Victoria (Kern) Ray. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Donna (Roy) Schuster. She was intentional about keeping their memory alive through stories. She mourned the loss of many in-laws with whom she shared a special relationship.
Eleanor was a long-standing member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Collinsville, Illinois. She carried out her devout faith through opportunities for service including delivering ‘Meals on Wheels’, volunteering for events, participating in weekly Bible studies, and finding creative ways to support and lift up her friends. She enjoyed bluegrass country music and attending weekend shows. She spent time sitting on any porch she could find; sipping an iced tea and admiring the birds and fresh flowers around her. She found joy in the little things because she didn’t allow herself to get “too busy”. Those who knew her will carry those attributes until they are called to be reunited with her.
Services to honor Eleanor’s meaningful life will be Saturday, June 29, 2024 in McLeansboro, IL. Visitation is from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the funeral following at Hopewell Church off of Coal Mine Road. Burial will be at I.O.O.F. (Oddfellows) Cemetery. A meal and celebration of her impact on those who knew her will follow at Union Hall located at 109 W. Market.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, 195 West Country Lane, Collinsville, IL 62234 and will also be accepted at the service, or at Gholson Funeral Home in McLeansboro. Online condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gholsonfuneralhome.com