Jacquelyn Ray

Jacquelyn “Jackie” Kay Ray, age 67, of Cherokee, Iowa, passed in her own home November 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life at the Quimby Baptist Church on Saturday November, 8, 2025. Family will be present from 12-1 p.m. with a prayer service at 1:00 p.m.

Jacquelyn Kay Rienfeld was born on June 5, 1958, in Cherokee, the daughter of Myrl and Betty (Rahbusch) Rienfeld. Jackie was raised in Cherokee and spent many cherished summers on the Rahbusch farm in Sutherland. She attended Washington High School, graduating with the Class of 1976.

On May 22, 1976, Jackie was united in marriage to Kenneth Ray, Jr. at Trinity Lutheran Church. Together, they made their home in Cherokee, Sonoma, California, and Washta. Jackie eventually returned to Cherokee after Kenny’s passing.

Throughout her life, Jackie worked hard and cared deeply for her people. She was employed at several places over the years, including Speelmon’s Steakhouse, Cherokee Mental Health Institute, Napa State Hospital, K-Products, and Countryside Estates.

Jackie grew up a tomboy and loved spending time outdoors. She played baseball with the boys as a kid and later went on to play adult league fast-pitch softball in the 1980s. As a talented catcher, she was named MVP several times. Jackie also enjoyed “junking,” cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and, above all, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were her greatest joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Myrl and Betty Rienfeld; her husband, Kenneth Ray, Jr.; her in-laws, Kenny Sr. and Clarsie Ray.

Jackie is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Casandra (Jeremy) Guttau of Cherokee, Iowa, and Christi Carstens of Cushing, Iowa; special son, Francis Flewelling of Cherokee, Iowa; her siblings, Jeanette Smith of Oregon and Rodney Rienfeld of Texas; nine grandchildren, grand-children, Audrey Simmons, Dylan Simmons, Anthony Simmons, Clarsie Simmons, Cierra (Devon) Howell, Ethan Guttau, Frankie Carstens, Bailey Carstens, and Drake Carstens; and five great-grandchildren; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Honorary bearers are Cody Ray, Nathan Ray, Garret Ray, Dillon Ray, and Emily Fulton.

Jackie will be remembered for her strength, mischievous spirit, witty commentary, and unwavering love for her family.