The following message was sent to campus by President Martin on July 8:
“With a heavy heart, I am writing to share that our cherished friend, distinguished alumnus, and former colleague, Robert D. Ray, died this morning. Governor Ray proudly served as Iowa’s 38th governor and, later in his career, as the 11th president of Drake University, from April 1998 to May 1999. He received his B.A. in business from Drake in 1952, and his juris doctorate from Drake Law School in 1954.
Governor Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Billie, three daughters, and eight grandchildren. Plans for celebrating his life are pending, and will be announced at a later time.
Governor Ray had a tremendous impact on Iowa, the United States, and the world. In similar fashion, he served his beloved alma mater exceptionally well. His legacy will live on, of course, through the great work of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center; the Robert D. Ray Collection of political and personal papers and memorabilia from Governor and Mrs. Ray, archived at Cowles Library; the RaySociety, Drake University’s lifelong learning organization; and the Ray Promenade, a beautiful plaza to be dedicated on campus this fall.
Please join me in remembering Governor Ray, and in supporting his family at this difficult time.” — Marty Martin, President
Details of funeral, observances
Governor Ray will lay in state at the Iowa Capitol building Thursday, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Iowa Air and Army Guard troops, Iowa State Troopers, and the Des Moines Police will lead a procession of vehicles along University Avenue from west to east at approximately 4 p.m. as they travel toward the Capitol. Faculty and staff are welcome to show their support for Governor Ray and his family by standing along University Avenue as the procession passes by.
The motorcade will bring the governor into the first floor Rotunda where a brief ceremony will occur at 5 p.m. Those wishing to pay their respects at the Capitol should arrive early, as security checkpoints will be utilized.
The funeral for Governor Ray will be held Friday at the First Christian Church at 25th and University Avenue in Des Moines. The service will begin at 1 p.m. There will be limited seating. However, those wishing to observe and celebrate the life of Governor Ray can view a live stream of the service. Details of the live stream will be made public soon.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center on campus, located at 2507 University Avenue. Remembrances may also be left on The Ray Center website.
Statement from the family of Governor Robert D. Ray
Biography of Governor Robert D. Ray