Diana Wray Obituary

Diana Nelson Wray
1942 ~ 2024
A special lady, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend retired
from this earthly sphere on August 25, 2024. Diana escaped the restraints of
Parkinson's disease and the shackles of Parkinson's related dementia. She
died at her home in Salt Lake City with family at her side.
Diana was born August 26, 1942 in Tremonton, Utah; the first born to Verl
and Wanda Nelson. She attended Tremonton public schools, followed by
study at Utah State University, earning a B.A. degree in English in 1963.
In September 1963 she married her life-partner Robert B. Wray, MD and to
this union three children were added: Robert Jr, Richard and Teresa.
Subsequent additions included the children's spouses: Holly, Cory and Stefan;
followed by four grandchildren: Ryder, Scarlett, Leo, and Lila.
In addition to being a great wife, mother, grandmother and mentor she was

an outstanding teacher, beloved by her students and often called 'the best
teacher I've ever had'. She was a multi-talented individual, providing active
service in the PTA and Junior League. She published a book of 'Urban Cowboy
Poetry', two children's books, and was a gifted designer of beaded jewelry. She
accepted her illness but did not let the 1989 diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
hamper her artistic undertakings until the dementia raised its ugly head
robbing her of access to her many talents.
Diana is survived by her husband, her three children and their spouses, her
grandchildren, a sister Toni Wintermute, and brother Craig Nelson. She
remains a hero to us all.
A special thank you to each of her physicians, physician assistants, and
nursing personnel along the journey. And, heartfelt gratitude to our special
CNA Rosemary Silva for such loving, dedicated care; and to CNS Hospice Care
for providing outstanding care and attention to Diana – as well as the family,
the last week of her life. And lastly to Bob, her loving husband and loyal
caregiver. His commitment to his wife was unwavering and inspirational.
Diana's wishes were to be cremated and to have a private, family celebration
of her life. In lieu of flowers, she would be honored by family and friends
making time and effort to visit the infirmed, and by staying connected, or
reconnecting, with old friends.