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Iowa’s 38th governor has died at the age of 89, as confirmed by family members in a statement from Drake University in Des Moines this past Sunday.
What happened?
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According to KCRG, Ray’s passing was confirmed in the following statement:
“Robert D. Ray, Iowa’s 38th governor, who never stopped serving the state and its people in recent decades, passed away early this morning in Des Moines.”
“He had dealt with Parkinson’s disease and died peacefully of natural causes at Wesley Acres.”
David Oman, Ray’s former chief of staff, also released the following statement:
“Bob Ray defined the modern era governorship for Iowa and beyond.”
“More importantly, he touched the lives of three generations of Iowans, who respected, trusted and followed his leadership. He will be greatly missed by many; his legacy will extend for decades to come.”
Iowa’s current governor Kim Reynolds also issued the following statement:
“Governor Ray’s legacy lives on in the millions of people that he impacted as a tremendous statesman for Iowa and our nation.”
“His civility, courage and common-sense governing set a high standard for those who followed. May our prayers and thoughts bring peace to First Lady Billie Ray, her daughters and family at this time.”
Ray was first elected governor in 1968 and served five consecutive terms, an ultimate total of 14 years. Towards the 1990’s, he also took on the role of acting mayor of Des Moines, followed by president of Drake University. At this time, he is believed to be survived by his wife Billie, three daughters and eight grandchildren.
What is Bob Ray’s official cause of death?
According to KCRG, the statement confirming Ray’s death said that he died of “natural causes,” adding that he endured Parkinson’s disease during the final years of his life.
