116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Billie Lee Ray, former Iowa first lady, dies at 97
Her legacy includes philanthropic work with numerous organizations and the co-founding of Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University
Feb. 18, 2026 6:52 pm, Updated: Feb. 18, 2026 7:35 pm
The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
DES MOINES — Billie Lee Ray, former first lady of Iowa and wife of the late Gov. Robert D. Ray, died Wednesday at the age of 97. Her legacy includes philanthropic work with numerous organizations and the co-founding of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University.
Her passing was announced Wednesday by Drake University.
In a message sent to campus on Wednesday, Drake University President Marty Martin wrote: “It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of Billie Lee Ray, a dear friend, benefactor, alumna of Drake University, and former First Lady of Iowa. Mrs. Ray passed away peacefully on this morning at the age of 97. Together, Mrs. Ray along with her late husband, former Governor Robert D. Ray, supported the University for decades, making an impact on the lives of generations of students.”
A native of Des Moines, Billie Ray attended Roosevelt High School, where she met her future husband. Both went on to attend Drake University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education.
Following graduation, she taught elementary school in the Des Moines Public Schools system, beginning what would become a lifelong commitment to education and youth development.
That commitment took on a broader platform when Robert Ray was elected governor in 1968. Billie Ray served as Iowa’s first lady from 1969 to 1983. During her time at Terrace Hill and in the decades that followed, she championed education, community engagement and character development.
“During her time as First Lady — and beyond — Mrs. Ray was a steadfast advocate for education and community empowerment,” Martin wrote. “She understood the power of education and believed in the potential of every student.”
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, in a statement, called Billie Ray “a remarkable example of grace, leadership, and service to others.”
“Her work supporting education and community organizations helped shape opportunities for countless Iowans,” Reynolds said. “... 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.”
Building a lasting legacy at Drake
Perhaps the most visible testament to Billie Ray’s belief in education and community empowerment is the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, which the couple helped establish. The center focuses on improving civility through character development and ethical leadership, with programs spanning early childhood education, corporate training, community initiatives and public service.
She received the Drake University Alumni Distinguished Service Award and the Drake University National Alumni Centennial Award for Service. In 2020, she was presented with the Robert D. Ray Pillar of Character Award — an honor later renamed the Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award in tribute to the couple.
She also served on the Drake University Board of Governors, chaired the Drake University National Alumni Association Board and was a member of the university’s President’s Circle.
A lifetime of service statewide
Mrs. Ray’s civic engagement reached far beyond the university campus. She devoted time and leadership to numerous organizations across Iowa, including the Terrace Hill Foundation, Iowa Friendship Force, Cedar Rapids Symphony, Brucemore, American Red Cross, Easterseals, United Way, Des Moines Civic Center and the Blank Park Zoo Foundation, among many others.
In 2000, she was named one of the 12 initial Women of Influence by the Des Moines Business Record. In 2012, she and her husband received the Youth & Shelter Services Outstanding Contribution — Children and Youth Award for their longtime support of the organization. Easter Seals Camp Sunnyside’s Child Development Center in Des Moines was later named the “Bob and Billie Ray Development Center” in their honor.
Throughout her life, Billie Ray was widely recognized for what Drake President Martin described as “selfless service and dedication to helping others.”
Family and remembrance
Billie Ray is survived by her three daughters, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services are being arranged through Iles Dunn’s Chapel. Additional information will be released at www.IlesCares.com.
In closing his message, Martin urged the Drake community — and Iowans more broadly — to carry forward her example.
“As we mourn Mrs. Ray’s passing, let us also celebrate and honor her legacy by giving back, serving others, and creating a brighter future for all,” he wrote. “Mrs. Ray’s life is an example of the powerful impact one individual can have on their community.”
Comments: (319) 398-8499; tom.barton@thegazette.com
Daily Newsletters