Norman “Ray” Gallup, 77 of Rexburg, died Friday, July 31, 2009 at his home surrounded by family. He was born December 9, 1931 in Venice, California, to James Leo and Lavon Bischoff Gallup. He was the second of three sons and is preceded in death by his parents and brothers.
He married the true love of his life, Nola Jean Olive, on August 21, 1956. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple by Elder Harold B. Lee. They have had a life filled with joy and service as they have raised six children, 3 boys and 3 girls, over the past 53 years.
Ray loved his work, teaching in the Church Educational System. He spent ten years teaching Seminary in Ogden and then here, in Rexburg, at Madison High School as the Seminary Principal. He then taught at Ricks College for 28 years in the Religion Department.
During his many years of teaching, he taught more than 12,000 students, knowing and greeting each and every one by name, every time they came to class and opening his office to them for help, comfort and guidance anytime they needed him. He was beloved by his students for his genuine kindness, gentle manner, sense of humor and integrity and especially for his fervent, unwavering testimony of His Heavenly Father and His glorious Son, Jesus Christ. He would answer any question openly and honestly while leading young people to feel the spirit of the scriptures so they could build their own testimonies that would last throughout their lives.
He is a beloved Husband, Father and Grandfather. He loved his wife and family second only to His God and Savior and was never-endingly patient—teaching and loving by example and testimony. His daily kindness and dedication have endeared him to his family, and having never lost his temper, leaves them with nothing to regret and a lifetime of joyous memories. Memories of family trips, working together, laughing together, weekly family nights, silly jokes and lots of love will remain with each Family member as he returns Home with honor after a life of faithfulness to all who knew him, to his church and to His Lord.
Ray served in many capacities in the church including serving as a bishop, high counselor, scoutmaster, ordinance worker in the Idaho Falls Temple, mission leader and of course teacher to many ages. He and his sweetheart, Nola, have served three missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. First in Seattle in Family History, then Boston on a CES mission, and finally they have just returned in January from serving in Salt Lake City in the Church History and Archives mission. They have seen many miracles and touched many lives during their service. They also had the wonderful experience of teaching at the Jerusalem Center before Ray retired. Thay have been inseparable in the 12 years since Ray retired and truly they have set an example of a beautiful, deep and abiding love and honor for each other in their marriage.
Ray served his country in the Army, being stationed in Munich, Germany, for two years and then for 6 years more in the Army Reserve, leaving the service in 1960 with an honorable discharge. Although teaching was truly his first love in his work, he had learned the plumbing trade from his father and many have been blessed by his knowledge in this field, too, and his willingness to serve and share.
His ready wit, genuine caring and integrity will be missed by all who knew him. Though his body has lost a battle with cancer, his Spirit has triumphed in life and he returns Home to be greeted, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Goodbye, our Beloved, we will see you soon.
He is survived by his sweetheart, Nola, daughter, Julie Ann (John Turner), son, Bruce Ray (Carol), son, David Shawn (Tricia), daughter, Kristin Rae (Joseph Arnett), daughter, Danna Lynne (Ben Hendrick), son, Michael Douglas (Nichol), 27 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren (plus two on the way).
From his Obituary: https://www.flammfh.com/obituary/402625