Berniece Elizabeth Ray, 92, of the Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center, Sedalia, MO, and formerly of the Green Ridge, MO, community, died peacefully surrounded by family on July 23, 2014, from natural causes.

She was born in Sedalia, MO, on January 27, 1922, to the late Bessie Lee and Lee J. Stevenson.

After graduating from Hughesville High School, Berniece married the late Melvin R. Ray on July 28, 1940. She went on to become an exemplary spouse and mother as she continued to expand her circle of friends.

As a member of the Green Ridge Presbyterian Church, several civic and social clubs, and high-level success in the Avon organization, she focused all her energies toward being a model spouse, mother, relative and friend.

Berniece was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Emmett Stevenson and Glen Stevenson; and one great-granddaughter, Hannah Elizabeth Needy. Surviving her are four children: Judy (Cliff) Needy of Green Ridge, MO; Steve (Joan) Ray of Ft. Walton Beach, FL; Kenny Ray and Connie Ray both of Sedalia, MO; two brothers, Everett (Minnie) Stevenson of Cole Camp, MO, formerly of Smithton, MO; and Floyd (Vonda) Stevenson of Sedalia, MO.

She was also blessed with six grandchildren, Doug and Todd Needy, Meredith (Ray) Painter and Cameron Ray, and Justin Ray and Lori (Ray) Holem plus an additional 17 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends may call after 10:00 A.M. Sunday with the family receiving friends from 1:00 P.M. until service time at 2:30 P.M. at Ewing-Schutte-Semler Funeral Home on July 27, 2014 with Pastors Randy and Dianna Marcum officiating.

Burial will follow at the Green Ridge Cemetery. In both actual and honorary status, pallbearers will be all grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family suggests donations to the Green Ridge Presbyterian Church or the Crossroads Hospice Organization.

You may leave condolences online at ewingschuttesemlerfh.com

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