LaRay Collins
September 16, 1943 - October 15, 2021
Obituary
LaRay Wical Collins was born in Miles City, MT on September 16, 1943 to Frank and Fern Wical. She left her earthly home on October 15, 2021, leaving behind the love of her life of 59 years, Jerome, her sons Tracy (Jami) and Darrin (Dana), and six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. LaRay was predeceased by her parents, and her sister Kerry Pat Wical Askin. Jerome and LaRay were married June 1, 1962 in Ekalaka, MT where they lived before moving to Billings in 1965. Working as a CNA in high school led to her starting Nursing School in 1966 and becoming an LPN, working in her chosen profession for 40 years. Never one to dodge adventure, LaRay would try almost anything at least once: stock car racing, camping, snow skiing, water skiing. She seldom missed an event involving her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Despite the back pain and lung issues, she loved babysitting the grandkids. LaRay loved her animals, and gardening to the point of using 35 feet of oxygen tubing to tend her flower bed. Everyone who knew and loved LaRay will miss her smiling face and caring ways. When your loved one becomes a memory, every memory becomes a treasure. We miss you and will carry you in our hearts forever. Memorials may be sent to the Ekalaka Cemetery or the charity of your choice.
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Memories
KB
Karen Beyl
Other •
I always enjoyed when LaRay was around we laughed and always had fun. She was our biggest softball fan and never missed a game one of her family was in. She took outstanding care of my Grandmother when she was at St Johns. Jerry, Darrin and family big hugs and prayers to you. I will be with you in spirt. I wish I could be there.
TS
Tribute Store
Other •
LaRay will be missed always her kindness and support will always be remembered sorry for your loss love you all Lee and Terri
TM
Tammy martin
Other •
So sorry for your loss. I worked with laray at st. Johns for many years. She always spoke highly of her family. She will be greatly missed. Prayers to all of you
RN
Reba Nicholson
Other •
LaRay and I worked together at St. Johns--both in nursing as LPNs. We became close friends, always keeping tabs on her son and my daughter who were going to school together. I remember LaRay's love of animals as she volunteered to babysit my own dogs and always had pets at her home. I attended she and Jerry's 25th anniversary party--lots of fun. She attended many luncheons with other nurses that we had worked with over the years. I miss her already.
RN
Reba Nicholson
Other •
Our sympathy to Jerry and family Gary and Reba Nicholson and Trudy Wendelin