Iowa Lowers Flags to Honor Former First Lady Billie Ray

Governor orders flags at half-staff to remember Billie Lee Ray, wife of late Governor Robert D. Ray

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Billie Lee Ray, former First Lady of Iowa and wife of the late Governor Robert D. Ray. Mrs. Ray passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at the age of 97.

Why it matters

Billie Ray was a respected figure in Iowa who dedicated her life to supporting education and community organizations, helping to shape opportunities for countless Iowans. Lowering the flags is a symbolic gesture to honor her legacy and contributions to the state.

The details

The flags will be flown at half-staff on the State Capitol Building, on flag displays in the Capitol Complex, and on all public buildings, grounds and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to also fly the flag at half-staff as a sign of respect.

  • Flags will be lowered from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
  • Billie Lee Ray passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at the age of 97.

The players

Governor Kim Reynolds

The current Governor of Iowa who ordered the flags to be lowered in honor of Billie Ray.

Billie Lee Ray

The former First Lady of Iowa and wife of the late Governor Robert D. Ray, who passed away at the age of 97.

Robert D. Ray

The late Governor of Iowa and husband of Billie Lee Ray.

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What they’re saying

“Billie Ray set a remarkable example of grace, leadership, and service to others. Her work supporting education and community organizations helped shape opportunities for countless Iowans.”

— Governor Kim Reynolds (1630kcjj.com)

The takeaway

Billie Ray's legacy as a dedicated First Lady and community leader will be remembered and honored through the lowering of flags across Iowa, a symbolic gesture to commemorate her life and contributions to the state.