Marsha Shane Ray

Marsha Shane Ray, a devoted mother, proud grandmother, and fiercely loyal friend, passed away on December 18, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on November 15, 1944, she grew up as a Brooklyn native in a neighborhood that valued resilience and community, traits she carried with her throughout her dedicated and remarkable life.

Marsha’s career as a skilled bookkeeper spanned decades in Brooklyn, New York City and South Florida. Known for her precision and reliability, she approached her work with the same determination and care she brought to every aspect of her life. She was a problem-solver, a confidante, and a steadying force for those she worked with.

Marsha’s most prized job was as a mother, not only to her three beloved children—Michael Ray, Ryan Ray, and Roni Ray—and her children-in-law, Hunter Gilmore, Lindsay Ray, and the late Stephanie Ray, but also to countless others she welcomed into her life. She is survived by her brother, Lloyd Shane; her sister, Linda Cohen; and her nephews, niece-in-law, and great-nieces: Keith Harvey, Spencer Harvey, Maya Harvey, Adelyn Harvey, and Emma Harvey. She was “Nana” to her cherished grandchildren, Abby Ray, Avery Ray, and Nathan Ray, and she was “Mom” to the many friends, chosen family, and neighbors who found comfort and guidance in her wisdom, humor, and straight talk. She loved fiercely and unapologetically; filling homes with laughter, colorful language and the irresistible smell of brisket, chicken nuggets or sausage and peppers simmering on the stove.

Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Ruth Shane, who helped shape her resilience, strength and independence. She taught her children and grandchildren to appreciate where they came from, embrace life’s challenges, and never stop learning. As a lover of games—whether playing Scrabble, Pac-Man, or Mahjong—Marsha found joy in competition and camaraderie, and she always played to win. She found inspiration in words and symbols of life and luck. Her “Serenity Wall” adorned each home she lived in, reminding all who visited about the power of grace, tenacity, and hope.

As we say goodbye to Marsha Shane Ray, we hold onto her lessons: honor sacred traditions while building new and unconventional ones; always speak your truth; and don’t forget to walk into every new chapter with your right foot first. In the words of one of her favorite songs, The Gambler by Kenny Rogers, she had the uncanny ability to know when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em, and her life was rich with aces that her loved ones will keep with them forever.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, January 10th at Cedar Park Cemetery in Paramus, New Jersey. In honor of Marsha, her family invites you to support educational opportunities, especially for those less fortunate.