Beverly Jean Brey, 95, beloved resident of Raymond, NE, passed away peacefully on Tuesday May 28, 2024 at Journey House in Lincoln, surrounded by family. Born on December 13, 1928 to Glen and Thelma Stearnes in Lincoln. Thelma died in 1930 and Glen married Mary Saul in 1932. Beverly and her two older sisters; Elenor and Marjorie were raised by Mary in Raymond. Beverly lived a life full of joy and adventure.
Beverly was an active member of the Raymond Women’s Club and the Raymond Extension Club for many years. Later in life she was in the volunteer program at Raymond Central High School. Her home life was also centered around helping strays, both human and animal species. Growing up you never knew who would be around the dining room table: the homeless always found a cup of coffee and a hot meal and a couple bucks to get them to their next destination. There was always a gosling or injured sheep or pig or something to be nursed back to health. Beverly lovingly tended to the additions along with five kids and life on a small dairy farm.
Surprisingly she found time to pursue photography. She was always seen with her camera documenting her family, community and life on the farm. A high point was to have two of her photos selected by the Lincoln Journal & Star photo contest in the 80’s. But an even greater honor was having her photography collection accepted by History Nebraska. “This collection makes an important contribution to History Nebraska in several ways, as it helps us to better represent post-1950s Nebraska, modern (post-1960s) agriculture, small Nebraska communities, and photography by women.” Later in life she became an avid watercolorist.
Beverly never stopped looking for new adventures. At the age of 81 she decided to try sky diving and loved it so much did it again at 83. At 85 she participated in a challenging zip line course.
Beverly is survived by her children: John (Karen); Geri Callahan (John); Jean Domangue (Mark); Steve (Beth); Bonnie Gottula (Alan) and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Donal in 2000. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all those who knew her.
A graveside service to celebrate Beverly’s life will be held on Saturday June 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Oak Creek Cemetery, Raymond, NE.
Following the graveside service there will be a Celebration of Life at the Raymond Woman’s Club, 14701 1st Street, Raymond, NE.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be gladly accepted to the Raymond Woman’s Club and the Lincoln Humane Society.