Shawna Marie Ray-Balls

Albany- Shawn Marie Ray-Balls, 53, passed away on February 5, 2018. The daughter of the late Joseph E. and Rose Mary (Thomas) Ray, Sr., Shawn was born on June 2, 1964 in Albany, NY. She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. She adored her grandchildren with all of her heart. Shawn was an avid Kardashian Sisters fan and rarely missed their show. She loved to spend time shopping and dining out with her grandkids, especially eating Chinese food. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Shawn is survived by her beloved daughter, Shatana (Michael Taylor) Balls-Suarez; her sisters Donna (Mark White) Dolan and Irene Ray; her grandchildren: Shaun, Cheyenne, Michelle and Geonna and her longtime boyfriend, Kevin McCarty. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother Joseph E. Ray, Jr. and her sister MaryLou Ray.
Visitation will be from 1:30 pm to 3 pm on Thursday, February 8 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. A funeral service will be held at 3 pm at the funeral home. Burial will be private.
Shawn struggled for many years with addiction, and her family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Father Peter G. Young Housing, Industries & Treatment, 40 Eagle Street, Albany, NY 12207.