Cheryl Diane Ray, age 68, died unexpectedly on Monday, June 12, 2023, at Harrison County Hospital in Bethany, Missouri. She was born November 30, 1954, in Trenton, Missouri to John and Dorothy (Lollar) Booth. She was a 1972 graduate of South Harrison High School, Bethany. Cheryl was one of five children who grew up on a farm in Bethany. She met her future husband, Gary Ray, on a hayride sponsored by the Baptist Student Union in college. It was a true case of the country girl and the city boy falling in love. On June 7, 1975, she married Gary, who later taught graphic arts and photography at Hillyard Technical School in St. Joseph, Missouri. She graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1976 with a B. S. Degree in Education and later earned her Masters of Elementary Education Degree from Baker University. She was passionate about teaching and worked as a speech and language pathologist in the public-school setting for many years. She was especially fond of her students in the special education setting. Cheryl and her husband also owned the Savannah Reporter newspaper in Andrew County, Missouri for a period of time. On May 3, 1983, and February 27, 1989, respectively, Cheryl and Gary welcomed their two daughters, Carly and Megan. Cheryl was a devoted mother and wife and a devout Christian. She enjoyed being with her family and friends, traveling, and listening to music. She was an avid reader, an antique enthusiast, and she loved animals. She enjoyed going on walks with her family and visiting local parks. She adored her grandchildren, speaking of them often and looking forward to each visit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Cheryl is survived by her husband, Gary Ray; her daughters, Carly (Josh) Szippl and Megan Ray-Snapp; four grandchildren: Clementine, Briar, Elijah, and Flint, and her siblings, Barry Booth, Johnna (Booth) Carrender, LaJune (Booth) Kampman, and David Booth. She is predeceased by her parents, John and Dorothy Booth. A visitation is scheduled from 11:00-1:00 followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p. m. on Thursday, June 22 at Living Hope Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. Rev. Bob Springate will officiate. Flowers, donations and condolences may be offered at Living Hope Church, 19410 US-59, St. Joseph, MO 64505.