Della Marie Ray

Della Marie Ray, 85, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2023, due to heart complications. Born on March 25, 1938, on Hawkins Branch in Menifee County, Kentucky, she was the youngest of 11 children born to Rebecca and Aude Williams.

Della was a dedicated and hardworking woman who built a lasting legacy in Indianapolis as a business owner for over 40 years. She founded DMR Cleaners and co-owned VIP Cleaners with her former husband, Forest L. Swango, operating multiple locations throughout the city. Prior to her entrepreneurial endeavors, she served as a dental assistant at the IU School of Dentistry, where she helped train future dental professionals.

Della was a lifelong resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, known for her strong work ethic, loving spirit, and devotion to her family. She is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Morgan V. Ray, Jr.; her children, Terri Lee See, Rebecca Sue Whitehead, and Steven Lloyd Swango (Shelby); and five beloved grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members who cherished her, including many cherished nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by all ten of her siblings but is fondly remembered by her surviving extended family, including sisters Ruby Barnett, Mary Moffett, Christine Whisman, Irene Lutrell, and brothers Williard Williams (Lucille) and Raymond Williams.

Her family roots trace back through generations in Kentucky, including her great-grandmother Sirena Davis of Breathitt County. According to family lore shared by nephew, Frank Pitts, Sr, Della may have been delivered at home by Granny Barnett, a well-known local midwife.

Della’s warmth, resilience, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.