Helen Ray, 76, of Dell Rapids passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2014 in her home. Her Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 13, 2014 at the United Methodist Church, Dell Rapids. Visitation on Sunday, October 12, 2014 will begin at 1:00 p.m at Kahler Funeral Home. The family will be present from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. with a time of sharing at 3:00 p.m. Condolences may be left at http://www.kahlerfh.com.

Helen, born and raised in Webster, South Dakota, would begin a legacy of such kindness and compassion that could only be paid forward from the many lives she touched. Her ability to warm the hearts of others through her infectious laughter and quick, easy smile helped people feel welcomed and loved.

Helen married Gerald Ray on April 1, 1962 and began the role of wife and mother over the span of five decades. Her ability to raise and instill values into her three daughters was what allowed her to open her heart and home to countless children in over 20 years as a daycare provider. She spent countless hours offering warm hugs, smiles and encouragement as she raised many children into successful adults. Even when her daycare duties ended, she stayed a strong supportive influence as she followed them through various events in their lives.

Her door was always open throughout the years for anyone if they needed to talk, ask for advice, needed a shoulder to cry on, learn to bake or can pickles, or have a homemade spaghetti meal.

For many years Helen was active in the community. She worked with the youth bowling leagues, was one of the founding members of the Haven after school program, was on the founding committee for the Relay for Life, and supported every fundraiser she could that encouraged youth development.

Left behind to cherish her memory is her husband Gerald Ray; brother, Jack Jacobs and wife Mary; daughters, Kerri Kirschenmann, Toni Ray-Christensen and husband Tony, and Paula Ray; and her four Grandchildren Aleza Kirschenmann, Tanner Christensen, Caleb Kirschenmann, and Taryn Christensen.

Helen’s family encourages you to wear the cancer awareness color of your choice to Helen’s funeral.