Janet Joy Ray

Janet Joy Ray, age 63 of Fox Crossing, passed away at her residence on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Janet was born in Oshkosh on July 29, 1961 to Donald and Jacquelyn (Troxell) Kildsig. She was united in marriage to Jeffrey Ray on October 22, 1983.

Janet’s academic pursuits led her to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree, after which she dedicated her life to the education of others as a special education teacher. Over the course of her remarkable 35-year career, she shaped countless lives while teaching in the Clinton and East Troy School Districts. Following her retirement from East Troy, she continued her passion for education as a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, inspiring a new generation of educators. Janet was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, Jeffrey Ray, and she poured her love into every role she played—mother, daughter, and Mema. She was the ultimate cheerleader for her children, always there with words of encouragement whether it was schooling, athletics, or professionally as educators. Janet's positive affirmations were a staple in her children’s lives, reminding them of their worth and potential.

Above all else, Janet adored her grandchildren, whose joy was the light of her life. Mema had a special way of turning her and Bepa’s home into a warm haven that was filled with many joyous dance parties and laughter. She truly cherished every moment spent with her grandkids. Her love of reading and baking became treasured experiences that she shared with them, creating lasting memories that will forever resonate in their hearts. Janet also had a special place in her heart for her beloved golden retrievers, Sadie, Maggie, and Jericho; they brought her immense joy and companionship. 

Together, Janet and Jeff built a life rich in love and laughter, filled with unforgettable memories shared at their cherished camper in Boulder Junction. Janet's passion for the great outdoors was evident in her joyous moments spent up north UTV-ing, boating, and soaking up the sun with Jeff, their children, and grandchildren. The serene beauty of Bond Falls, the mirrored lakes, and the thrill of searching for the elusive herd of albino deer were sources of immense happiness for her. She also treasured the peacefulness of reading a good book at the campground or the beach and evenings spent at Gooch's A-One, sharing fish fries and burgers with her husband.

Janet’s unwavering joy, smile, positivity, and love was always present.

Janet is lovingly survived by her husband, Jeffrey Ray; children, Joshua (Alicia) Ray and Jessica (Mitchell) Ryan; grandchildren, Amelia, Sawyer, Brody and Bella; mother, Jacquelyn Kildsig; brother, Donald (Kathleen) Kildsig; nieces, Elaine Kildsig and Ellen (Jacob) Muehlbauer.

She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Kildsig, and mother-and-father-in-law, Dorothy and Robert Ray.

A memorial service for Janet will be held at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home-Westside, 100 Lake Pointe Dr. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Eric Roth officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Family and friends are invited to a luncheon following Janet's service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial in Janet’s name will be established.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to ThedaCare-Neenah oncology, Dr. Klinkhammer, his compassionate nursing staff, as well as Andrea Ebben, FNP-BC, for the exceptional care and support provided to Janet throughout the last five years.