Barbara Jean Ray

Member Of Schaghticoke Indian Tribal Nation

Barbara Jean Ray, 72, previously of Newtown, Milford, and Bridgeport, died March 11 at Hilltop Health Center, Ansonia. She was born in Bridgeport, August 12, 1935, to John and Margaret Coggswell Ray.

She was a devoted caseworker for the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services for 40 years. Ms Ray lived in Newtown for 29 years and graduated from Newtown High School in 1953. She was a member of the Schaghticoke Indian Tribal Nation.

She is survived by her beloved sisters, Johnette “Peggy” LaConte and her husband, Micky, of Milford, Trudie Lamb Richmond and her husband, Dave, of Ledyard; four nephews; two nieces; 14 great-nieces and nephews; and seven great-great-nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Bette Ray Gonzalez, and a niece, Millie Gonzalez.

The family wishes to thank the CT VNA Hospice for all their wonderful and loving care.

All services will be private and at the convenience of the family. The arrangements are in the care of the Smith & Sefcik Funeral Home, 135 Broad Street, “On the Green,” Milford.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the CT VNA Home Healthcare & Hospice, 680 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton CT 06064, Grace Baptist Church, 400 Burnt Plains Road, Milford CT 06460, or St Peter’s Church, 71 River Street, Milford CT 06460.

The Newtown Bee        March 21, 2008