Former Iowa First Lady Billie Ray Passes Away at 97

Billie Lee Ray, wife of former Governor Robert D. Ray, was a longtime community leader and co-founder of the Ray Center at Drake University.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Billie Lee Ray, the wife of former Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday at the age of 97. As First Lady from 1968 to 1983, Billie Ray was actively involved in numerous community organizations and initiatives, including the Terrace Hill Foundation, Iowa Friendship Force, and the Cedar Rapids Symphony. Together with her husband, she co-founded the CHARACTER COUNTS! program in Iowa in 1997, which was later renamed the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University.

Why it matters

Billie Ray's passing marks the end of an era in Iowa politics and community leadership. As First Lady, she championed causes related to children, education, and community development, and her work through the Ray Center has left a lasting impact on ethical leadership and character development across the state.

The details

Billie Lee Ray passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday morning at the age of 97. She served as First Lady of Iowa from 1968 to 1983 during her husband Robert D. Ray's tenure as governor. After her time as First Lady, Billie Ray continued her public service work with numerous organizations, including the Terrace Hill Foundation, Iowa Friendship Force, the Cedar Rapids Symphony, the historic Brucemore in Cedar Rapids, the Red Cross, Easter Seals, United Way, Women in Business, Iowa Save Your Vision, Des Moines Civic Center, Blank Park Zoo Foundation, and Drake University.

  • Billie Lee Ray passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Billie Lee Ray served as First Lady of Iowa from 1968 to 1983.

The players

Billie Lee Ray

The wife of former Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray and a longtime community leader in Iowa.

Robert D. Ray

The former Governor of Iowa, who served from 1969 to 1983. Together with his wife Billie, he co-founded the CHARACTER COUNTS! program in Iowa in 1997.

The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University

An organization founded by the Rays in 1997 to improve civility through character development and ethical leadership programs.

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What’s next

The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University plans to hold a memorial service to celebrate Billie Ray's life and legacy in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Billie Ray's decades of public service and community leadership, both as First Lady and through her work with numerous organizations, have left an indelible mark on Iowa. Her commitment to character development, ethical leadership, and improving the lives of Iowans will continue to inspire future generations.