Janice Lee Nation Ray

October 18, 1948 – July 14, 2025

Janice Lee Nation Ray, 76, of Auburn, Alabama, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Alabama.

Born on October 18, 1948, in Birmingham, Alabama, Janice was the beloved daughter of the late L.M. Nation Jr. and Marcella Nation.

She grew up in Gardendale, Alabama, and graduated from Mortimer Jordan High School in 1967. Janice also attended Jacksonville State University and the University of Montevallo. She was a former member of Ebenezer Methodist Church in Gardendale and member of Alabaster Presbyterian Church (Cumberland) in Alabaster, Alabama formerly known as Elliotsville Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Janice was a radiant soul who lived for her family and found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a passion for thrifting, antiquing, gardening, arts and crafts, and cheering on her Auburn Tigers. Her love for her dogs, Lola and Rosie, was only matched by her deep devotion to her family.

A gifted real estate professional, Janice found true fulfillment in helping others find their dream homes. Her career was more than a job, it was an extension of her generous heart and her gift for connecting with people.

The embodiment of warmth and kindness, Janice was a true people person, she lit up every room she entered with her positivity, compassion, and unconditional love. She was an incredible daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Janice is survived by her loving husband, Bruce Ray; her children, Wendy Coats, Katie Robison, and Andrew Ray; sons-in-law Jason Coats and David Robison; grandchildren Jordan Coats, Jessica Coats, Jackson Coats, Avery Robison, and Charlie Robison; great-grandson Parker Coats; her sister, Rita Tuck, and brother-in-law Dan Tuck. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 16, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. All who knew and loved Janice are welcome to attend and share in honoring her memory. For those able to attend, please feel free to share any stories or memories of Janice that you may have.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The National Kidney Foundation.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisiting the family with arrangements.