(Des Moines, IA) – Officials with The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, Wednesday, announced the death of Billie Lee Ray. The center says the former First Lady of Iowa passed away peacefully in her sleep Wednesday morning at the age of 97.

Her tenure as First Lady began when her husband, Robert D. Ray, was elected Governor of Iowa in 1968. Mrs. Ray held the title until 1983. She then continued her work in public service with various organizations including Terrace Hill Foundation, Iowa Friendship Force, the Cedar Rapids Symphony, the historic Brucemore in Cedar Rapids, the Red Cross, Easter Seals, United Way, Women in Business, Iowa Save Your Vision, Des Moines Civic Center, Blank Park Zoo Foundation, and Drake University.

Together, the Rays started CHARACTER COUNTS! in Iowa in 1997. It was renamed The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University in 2015. The Ray Center works to improve civility through character development and ethical leadership. That extends from early childhood to the corporate, community, and public service areas. Her husband, Robert D. Ray, passed away in 2018. Billie Ray is survived by her three daughters, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

In a statement on the organization’s social media page, they announced “It is with deep sadness we share the passing of Billie Lee Ray, a dear friend, benefactor, alumni of Drake University, and former First Lady of Iowa. Together, Mrs. Ray, along with her late husband, former Governor Robert D. Ray, were champions of many causes—from children and education, to community development.

“Their legacy of leadership will live on through the efforts of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, as we continue to fulfill our mission to improve civility through character development and ethical leadership. We extend our deepest condolences to the Ray family and the many others whose lives were positively impacted by Billie Lee Ray.”

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, Wednesday evening issued this statement on the death of the former Iowa First Lady:

“Kevin and I are saddened to learn of the passing of former First Lady Billie Ray,” Gov. Reynolds said. “Billie set a remarkable example of grace, leadership, and service to others. Her work supporting education and community organizations helped shape opportunities for countless Iowans. In 1997, 14 years after Governor Robert Ray’s tenure, the two started what is known today as the The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, which works to instill meaningful leadership and civil skills in young Iowans that grow along with them through their lives. Billie’s kindness and spirit will be remembered by all who knew her, and her impact on Iowa’s children, women, families, and communities will live on for generations to come. Kevin and I are keeping her family in our thoughts and prayers.”