With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Jimmy Don Ray - a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.

Jimmy was the kind of man whose love was not always expressed through words, but through everything he did. He showed up. He worked hard. He helped whenever someone needed him, usually without being asked and never expecting recognition. If Jimmy cared about you, you knew you could count on him.

Born on February 18, 1950, Jimmy graduated from Montrose High School and attended Mesa State College. As a third-generation sawmiller with Ray Lumber, he carried forward a proud family tradition. The work was demanding, but Jimmy understood the value of perseverance, loyalty, and providing for the people he loved.

Away from work, Jimmy was happiest outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting, and the quiet peace that could be found beside a mountain stream or beneath an open sky. Those were the places where he could slow down, breathe deeply, and simply enjoy life.

Jimmy's first marriage to Cheryl Humphrey Kerschner brought the blessing of two children, Krislyn "Krissy" Grett and Zachary Ray. Jimmy later met Susan Deltonto, who became his wife, his companion, and an important part of the life he built. This December would have marked their 40th wedding anniversary - a beautiful testament to the many years and memories they shared together. His family continued to grow throughout his life, and nothing he built or accomplished meant more than the people he loved.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Susan Ray; his children, Krislyn "Krissy" Grett and her husband, Tom; Zachary Ray and his wife, Erin; Tina Allec and her husband, Mike; Tim Deltonto; and Brenda Adamson and her husband, Alexi.

He is also survived by his sister, Sheila Menzel; his grandchildren, Karsyn Grett, Emory Ray, Lily Ray, Alicia Hite, Zach Allec, Nichole Allec, Cole Grett, and Payton Grett; and his great-grandchildren, Avery Hite, Adelyn "Ady" Hite, Remy Mays, Harrison Grett, Sullivan Grett, and Banx Thomas Cortez. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives were better because Jimmy was part of them.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father, Emory Ray (Carol); his mother, Dorthy Holt Ray (Richard Follman); his brother, Taylor Ray; and his baby sister, Roxanna Ruth.

It is difficult to say goodbye to someone who has been part of the foundation of a family. Jimmy leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind lessons in strength, hard work, generosity, and the quiet ways a person can love others.

His place at the table may now be empty, and his familiar voice may be silent, but the life he built remains all around us - in his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and in every person who was fortunate enough to know him.

He leaves behind the strength of timber and the peace of mountain streams, a kindness that will live on in every life he touched. Though his hands are now at rest, the love he built will stand through every generation.

Jimmy, you were deeply loved. You will be deeply missed. And you will remain a part of our family's story forever.

The Celebration of Life will be held on November 29, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Elks Lodge. Lunch will be provided. In honor of Jimmy's life and his final journey home, the family has chosen the song "Go Rest High on That Mountain" by Vince Gill.