Betty R. Ray

Betty R. Ray, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, of Nashville, TN, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, at St Thomas West Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, to her biological parents, Betty’s journey was one of resilience, grace, and faith. At the age of five, she was placed in Monroe Harding Children’s Home, where she spent several of her early years. It was there that her path led her to her true parents, Frances and B.C. Alexander, who raised her with unwavering love and guidance. Through their nurturing, Betty grew into the strong, confident, and successful woman that so many knew and admired.

In 1971, Betty met Bud Ray, her soulmate and lifelong companion. For 34 wonderful years, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. In 1975, their daughter Nina was born, becoming the center of Betty’s world and the greatest joy of her life. She took immense pride in all that Nina accomplished over the years, celebrating every milestone with love and devotion. When Bud passed away in 2006, Betty held tightly to his memory, continuing to live by the values they shared and nurturing the family they had so lovingly built together.

Betty built a lifelong career as a Customer Service and Purchasing Agent, where her impeccable work ethic and professionalism earned her the respect of colleagues across the country. Over more than 40 years, she formed lasting business relationships and friendships with people from all walks of life.

Outside of work, Betty was a talented athlete who spent many years playing women’s slow-pitch softball, earning accolades throughout the state of Tennessee. The friendships she built on and off the field became a cherished part of her life.

In her later years, her heart belonged to her granddaughters, Kayli and Kendall, who affectionately called her “Big Mammy.” She delighted in every moment with them—visiting daily, hosting sleepovers, taking trips, dressing them alike, showing them off at church, and sharing countless shopping adventures. No game, play, or event went unnoticed; she traveled near and far to cheer them on and celebrate every achievement, big or small. Kayli and Kendall were not just her granddaughters—they were her constant companions, her joy, and the brightest light in her life.

Betty will always be remembered for her infectious personality, sharp sense of humor, and kind, compassionate heart. Her generosity and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and church community touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of Western Hills Church, where she found joy in serving in any capacity she could and cherished the fellowship of her church family.

Betty was preceded in death by her father, B.C. Alexander, her mother, Frances Alexander, her sister Linda Thompson, and her loving husband, Bud Ray.

She is survived by her daughter, Nina Mothershed (Duane); granddaughters, Kayli Mothershed (Keonte) and Kendall Mothershed (Gregory); sisters, Shirley Bell (David Sr.) and Kathy Denny; brothers, Charles Alexander, Mike Hill, and Ronnie Hill; nephews, David Bell Jr. (Shannon), Ricky Williams (Kelly), and Matt Hill (Mary Ellen); and nieces, Stephanie Creasy (Larry), Alex Madison, Sheree Alexander, Nicole Petrosky (Alec), Ashley Picone (Johnny), and Rebecca Denny (Elias). She is also survived by many beloved relatives from her husband’s side of the family, along with numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Beyond her immediate family, Betty’s life was enriched by the love of countless family members and friends whose lives she touched deeply with her kindness and grace.

If you wish to honor Betty’s memory, the family invites donations to Nashville Christian School Athletics or Nashville Swim Academy, reflecting her lifelong passion for sports and the work of her granddaughters, or, alternatively, contributions that continue her spirit of compassion and faith.

The funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 11:30 am, at Western Hills Church, located at 7565 Charlotte Pike with David Estes officiating. The burial will follow at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens.

Visitation with the Ray family will be on Monday evening, October 20^th, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm, then again on Tuesday, from 10:30 am until the service time at 11:30 am, all at the church.

Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104 (615) 857-9955. We are proud to be West Nashville & Bellevue’s only locally owned and operated burial & cremation provider.