Margaret Helen Ray died February 20, 2013, at the Meridian Care Center with her family by her side.
Helen was born to Olive and Douglas Keenan on September 29, 1915, in San Saba, Texas and moved with her family to Galveston in 1917. She attended Sacred Heart Elementary, Ursuline Academy, and the University of Incarnate Word.
Helen took great joy and pride in teaching kindergarten at St. Patrick’s school for many years. She was a kind, loving and fun teacher and was often recognized by former students when out in public. She also worked at the Galveston County Courthouse in the tax office where she enjoyed seeing old friends and making new ones.
She was an active member of St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary, Order of Martha, St. Patrick’s Altar Society, ABWA, and was the oldest living Ursuline Academy alumnus. Helen treasured her large family and many, many friends. She loved to play bridge and adored her dog, Rascal.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William J. Ray, Sr.; son, Bill Ray, Jr.; sister, Sitty McCoy and husband, Mac; and brother, Douglas Keenan and wife, Grace. She is survived by her sister, Olive Anne Keenan Curtis and husband, Charles; and many dear nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Helen’s family will receive visitors beginning at 5:00 pm, Tuesday, February 26th, at Malloy & Son Funeral Home. A rosary will begin at 6:00 pm, led by Deacon Sam Dell’Olio.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 am, Wednesday, February 27th, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father EJ Stein, OFM, as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dickinson, TX.
Pallbearers will be Joe Wilkinson, Charles Curtis, Paul Shields, Fred Patterson, Jr., and Jeff McCoy. Honorary pallbearers will be Wilson McCoy, Fred Patterson, Sr., Geoff McClure, and Douglas Keenan.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the tender loving care and respect given to Margaret Helen by the 3rd floor staff at the Meridian and the Hospice Care Team.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Family Preservation Fund or the charity of your choice.