Cortnay Sue Ray, 46 years young, was born in Holland, Michigan, and grew up in the surrounding communities before making Grand Haven, Michigan, home, where she raised her family.

Cortnay was a woman who was impossible to forget. Known for her endless sarcasm and unmistakable sense of humor, she was a jokester by heart. She never missed an opportunity to give someone a hard time, and her humor was a unique mix of dark, cringe-worthy, and downright hilarious. She could always make a room laugh. Never one to shy away from speaking her mind, Cortnay was outspoken, unapologetically herself, and always had something to say.

Life brought Cortnay her share of challenges, including the lasting effects of a stroke, but those challenges never defined the person she was or the love and laughter she brought to others.

Her greatest legacy is her three children, Haylee Ray, Cameron Ray, and Kendall Ray. She is also survived by her loving mother, Lonna Maatman; her father, Tom Nonhof; her siblings, Brandi Peterson, Heath Maatman (Lily), Sara Johnson (Andrew), Elizabeth Gornyecz (Jimmy), Anthony Nonhof-Fisher (Lindsay), Alex Nonhof, and Amy Conti (Andrew); and her many nieces and nephews: Ashlee, Jordin, Dakota, Skye, Elle, Maeve, Kai, Clare, Charlotte, Ezra, and John.

Although divorced, her former husband, Brian, remained a tremendous source of help and support in her life. She also shared a special bond with her former stepmother, Sue Nonhof, whose continued love, kindness, and support meant so much to her over the years.

Cortnay was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Cody Maatman, and her cherished grandmother, Cherie. We find comfort in knowing she is reunited with two people she loved dearly.

She also leaves behind her three beloved cats, Cindy, Carol, and Chonk.

Even in passing, Cortnay continued to give to others through the gift of organ donation. Her final act of generosity gave others a second chance at life, leaving behind a legacy of compassion that will live on.

In the days following her passing, her family has been reminded just how many lives Cortnay touched. Conversations with friends and family have uncovered countless stories, meaningful connections, and moments of laughter, showing just how deeply she was loved.

If Cortnay could have chosen how to be remembered, we’re pretty sure tears wouldn’t have been at the top of her list. She would have wanted laughter, stories, sarcasm, and plenty of people giving each other a hard time. Those who knew her best know that even in her final moments, the joking never stopped. And she wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

We can only imagine the trouble she’s already getting into with Cody and Grandma Cherie. 💜

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Cortnay’s life on Friday, November 20, at 4:00 PM. 

There will be food following a short ceremony at:

Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church

15424 Lake Michigan Dr

West Olive, MI 49460