OBITUARY

Reshell Denise Moore Ray peacefully passed away on February 10 in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Born in 1962 to John and Emma Jean Moore, Reshell was the second oldest of five children. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri, and later completed her Master’s degree at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

She met and married James Ray Jr., and together they built a beautiful life and raised five children. While devoted to motherhood, Reshell also built a remarkable professional career. She directed the Culture Center on UNL’s downtown campus for ten years before stepping into her role in Campus Student Involvement, where she faithfully served as Associate Director for 24 years.

Reshell absolutely loved her family and her students. She had an uncanny ability to be everywhere at once. Through a call, a text, or simply showing up, she made people feel seen, valued, and deeply loved, whether near or far.

Over her 34 years of service at UNL, she had the privilege of working with thousands of students. While she hosted numerous events featuring well-known guests such as Coach Boon, Larry the Cable Guy, and Lee Brice, her true passion was her students. She deeply believed in training the next generation, reminding them that they were the history-shapers.

Reshell also traveled hundreds of miles conducting leadership training for the Heartland Center. A visionary by nature, she was often found brainstorming new possibilities when plans needed to pivot. She will be remembered for her perpetual optimism, sound leadership, generous heart, and unwavering faith in God.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Ray Jr.; her sisters, Regina Savage and Rosalind Jordan; and her baby brother, Johnny Moore.

She is survived by her parents, John and Emma Jean Moore; her brother, Derrick Moore; her children: Rachel Ray, James Ray, Jonathan Ray, and his significant other, Casey Ogden; Rosalind Reloj and her spouse, Jeremy Reloj; Beccah Menter and her spouse, Jesse Menter; and beloved daughter, Rhani Henry.

She was the proud grandmother of fourteen grandchildren: Aiyana Ray, Aviyana Casteneda, Zendyn Scott, Aleah Ray, Teyha Ray, Jordan Ray, Emelle Reloj, Eliam Reloj, Miles Reloj, and Maxwell Reloj, Elliot Menter, Miyah Reshell Menter, Simeon Menter, and Sullivan Menter.

Her legacy of faith, leadership, service, and unconditional love will continue to shape generations to come.

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 21st at 12:00 P.M. at Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church (2969 Brinkman Rd, Villa Ridge, MO 63077). Family will greet family and friends prior to the service from 11:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

Memorials to the family for future designation.