Susan Martha Ray

Susan (Sue) went to be with her heavenly father on Thursday, April 28, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. Sue was born September 6, 1953 in Mount Clemens, MI the daughter of Robert and Mary Anne (Maraulo) Burns. She was a 1971 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School and she went on to further her education at Western Michigan University, receiving her bachelor’s and master’s degree in the studies of Education and English. Sue started her teaching career at Sturgis Public Schools, where she primarily taught 3rd grade. She was awarded the “Teacher of the Year” award while at Sturgis. She ended her teaching career at Kalamazoo Public Schools where she taught middle school. She especially enjoyed teaching English and poetry. She was a member of the Kalamazoo Elks Lodge #50. She enjoyed spending time with her grandkids, was an avid golfer, creative writer, poet, painter, spending time outdoors in nature, gardening and shopping for hidden treasures. On November 27, 1981, in Kalamazoo, Sue was united in marriage to David A. Ray, who survives. Also surviving are three children, Cherie (Steve) Mathews of Mason, Ryan Romanak, Paris, KY, Davis Ray of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren, Jordan Ford, Alex Mathews, Bryce Mathews, Blake Mathews, Cameron Mathews; brother, Robert “Bobby” Burns of Denver, CO; sister, Elizabeth (Reid) Harpster of White Lake; several nieces & nephews. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Communities in Schools of Kalamazoo 180 E. Water St, Suite 2000 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 by Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo. www.redmondfuneralhomes.net