Elizabeth Ray

Elizabeth LaVon Stephens was born January 19, 1932 in Fred, Texas, after graduating from Jefferson Academy, she attended school at Keene and Union College. She married Joe Ray a ministerial student ands served as a pastor’s wife in Louisiana, Maryland, Wisconsin and Texas. She played the piano and organ and sang specials on many Sabbaths and Evangelistic Meetings. She led Vacation Bible Schools and enjoyed working in the children’s department on Sabbath. She spent many years teaching children piano lessons.

After a long illness she died in her sleep at home on Friday night September 27, 2019.

LaVon is survived by her husband Joe Ray, daughters Sharon Hatten, Sheila Ray, Carmen Shantz and son Joe Lee Ray. Grandchildren Stephanie Feenstra, Heidi Thompson, Eric Bamberg, Michael Bamberg, Alexander Shantz, Christine Shantz and Caitlain Shantz. Brothers Benny Stephens, Ronnie Stephens, Don Stephens and Mitchell Stephens. Sister Merelyne Collum and Beverly Sorenson.


She is preceded in death by her parents, Gresham Stephens and Lillian Roberts and brothers Marvin Stephens and David Stephens.