Alta Bernice Ray, passed away on October 24, 2026, in Liberty City. She was born on March 13, 1946, in Gladewater, Texas, to the late Harvey Alton Hanson and Irene Hanson. Alta will be remembered as a woman of deep devotion to her family, her church, and those she served throughout her life.

Alta worked as an Estate Sales Manager and as a devoted caregiver, roles that reflected her caring nature and steady willingness to help others. She was deeply involved in her children’s activities at school and gave generously of her time to Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. For more than 55 years, she was a devoted member of First Baptist Church Liberty City. Alta had a servant’s heart and was always willing to help whenever needed, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her through her faithfulness, kindness, and quiet strength.

Above all, Alta treasured her family. She is survived by her husband, James Ray, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage. She also leaves her daughter, Teresa Washburn, and Teresa’s husband, David; her son, Robert “Bubba” Ray, and his wife, Stormy; her brothers, Tommy Hanson and Leon Brewer; her grandchildren, Shawna Varnell and her husband, Tim, Justin Ray and his wife, Lyndsi, Brantley Ray, and Steven Ray and his fiancée, Morgan; and her great-grandchildren, Zowie, Makenzi, Mason, Allie, Bryson, Caiman, Cillian, James, Levi, and Weston, and great great granddaughter Addilae. Each of them was part of the family circle she loved so dearly, and her presence will remain a cherished part of their lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, LeAnne Ray, and by her brothers, Travis Hanson, Harvey Joe Hanson, and Roy Hanson.

Visitation will be held on October 29, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Liberty City, 4714 Farm-to-Market 1252 West, Kilgore, Texas 75662. The funeral service will be held on October 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., also at First Baptist Church Liberty City. Burial will follow at Ray Family Cemetery, 657 Tom Eubanks Road, Gladewater, Texas 75647.

At Alta's request in lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to Pastor Chad Alexander to offset medical expenses, these can be made to FBC Liberty City, 4714 FM 1252 West, Kilgore, TX 75647 directly to Chad Alexander or via VENMO @PastorChadFBCLC.

Alta Bernice Ray will be remembered for her servant’s heart, her steadfast faith, and the love she gave so freely to her family and community. Her life was one of care, commitment, and grace, and her memory will be held close by all who were blessed to know her.