of Conway, AR
July 29, 1969 - August 29, 2025
July 29, 1969 - August 29, 2025
Shay Wilson Raycher was born on July 29, 1969 to Jim and Barbara Wilson of Searcy, Arkansas.
A 1987 graduate of Searcy High, Shay attended Hendrix College to study accounting. After realizing that career path would not be her future, but being one to follow through, she graduated with her accounting degree and continued on to earn her Juris Doctor in 1994 at the UALR William Bowen School of Law, serving on the Law Review for her last two years of school. This eventually led her to working at the Arkansas Court of Appeals for a 28 year long career under 5 different judges. She loved her work and even more so, the people she worked with.
Shay was known to be a collector of many things. An avid antique dealer, she was a familiar face among many auction houses and estate sales. She had an affinity for vintage toys, cast iron coin banks and natural wooden furniture. Shay had recently begun a new collection, one of stamps in her passport. Her deep love of travel had finally taken her abroad for a tour of Europe that she could not tell enough people about.
Shay never met a stranger who was allowed to stay a stranger for long. She had an ability to talk to anyone who would listen, one she attributed to her Duncan genes. Friends would be sure to not have anywhere to be early in the morning following a long night of conversation with Shay - she would chat anyone into the early hours. This night-owl consistency made her a dependable late night call, something her children took advantage of often.
Shay was preceded in death by her grandparents, Vernon and Wyndelene Duncan & Graham and Corrine Wilson; as well as one nephew, Johnathan Cole Slough. Shay is survived by her parents; sister, Nicole Slough (TJ); children, Sayer and Hayden Raycher and niece, Reagan Slough, as well as a host of family and friends.
Her family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Conway Regional ICU and Gentiva Hospice teams for their exceptional care given to Shay and the family.
A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Conway on Friday, September 5, at 3:00 p.m. with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shay's memory to Arkansas Children's Hospital, the Heber Springs Humane Society or a charitable organization of your choice.
Arkansas Children's Hospital - 1 Children's Way, Slot 661, Little Rock, AR 72202
Heber Springs Humane Society - PO Box 401, Heber Springs, AR 72543
Sign Guestbook
83 Condolence(s)
Melanie
Friday, September 5, 2025
I was so saddened to hear about Shay. She was so loved by everyone in the SHS class
of '87. She had such a sweet spirit and treated everyone with kindness.
We are praying for your family. ๐'
Love,
Melanie ''Keith'' Curry
Cindy Tittle
Friday, September 5, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful parent to work with at JLM. My prayers are with you all!
Camille Lambert
Friday, September 5, 2025
Keeping your family in our prayers. With our sincere condolences, Camille Lambert and Family.
Robbye Ridout
Friday, September 5, 2025
Barbara, Jim, Nicole and Family,
There are just no words to express the sadness I feel for all of you. Your Shay was an extraordinary person and every time we ran into one another, she seemed excited to see me and wanted to visit. It always made me so happy. She excelled in everything she did and we all were always so proud of her.
Please know that you are in my heart and in my prayers and I hope the love of all your friends and our Lord, Jesus Christ, will comfort you and uphold you as you face the days ahead without her.
With Love and Prayers
Robbye
Roxie Harris
Thursday, September 4, 2025
She was such a joy and a light to be around! Our son's played basketball together for many years so I grew to know and love her and she was always smiling and in good spirits.
Aimee Harris
Thursday, September 4, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to call her a friend. She was a good friend and will be missed. Praying for all of you.
Robbye Ridout
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Barbara, Jim, Nicole and family,
As witnessed by the extensive outpouring here of love for all of you and the wonderful words of kindness for your precious Shay, there is little I can add but I must say every time I'd run into her, she seemed so pleased to see me and always had time for a visit. Both of your girls have always been superior in every way. This leaves an empty space in our hearts and lives and my prayer will be that the life she lived is of great comfort to you. She led an exemplary life and the reflection is on you and our lord Jesus Christ whom she loved all her life.
With love, Robbye
Carl and Rhonda Pearce
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Shay was such a wonderful and beautiful person. We are blessed to have known her. Praying that the Lord will comfort you all as only He can.
Love and prayers,
Carl and Rhonda Pearce
Sharen Crockett
Thursday, September 4, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss! May God be with you and give you peace and comfort!
Billy Ray & Phillis Wood
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Barbara, Jim, Nicole,& Family,
We are so very sorry to learn of Shay's passing. She was a special person and left this world way too soon. Our hearts ache for you all. May the beautiful memories you have of her give you comfort at this tragic and difficult time.
Billy Ray & Phillis Wood
Sandra Squires
Thursday, September 4, 2025
My heart breaks for the loss of this beautiful soul on this earth, but an angel gained by our Heavenly Father.
Shay was such a sweet and vivacious girl growing up. Her smile and laughter was contagious . My family enjoyed many three wheeler trips, impromptu get togethers, and our children always enjoyed being together. My prayers are with Shay's entire family during this difficult time and the coming days. May God bless you with his sweet love.
Sandra
Alys Norman Carmichael
Thursday, September 4, 2025
My deepest condolences for your family. Shay was a good friend back in high school and have great memories to keep with me. Praying for the entire family
Dara Williams Overman
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the family. Shay was a great friend. I was blessed to have known her since the late 80's. I will definitely miss her. She had such a great spirit.
Diane Crawford
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
So sorry to hear about Shay. Such a sweet person that will be deeply missed. Continue prayers for this precious Wilson Family and their many friends. May God carry you and give you peace.
Gary & Diane Crawford
Jennifer Epps
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
I am so very saddened to learn about Shay's passing. She was so very kind to me and became a friend through the years. I have been living vicariously through her travel posts. I recently caught myself thinking ''Shay sure is living it up and traveling the world!" My deepest sympathy to the entire family.
Jennifer Evans Dawkins
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
I was so saddened to hear about Shay's passing. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. Jennifer Dawkins
Debbie Allison
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Hayden and family, I'm so very sorry to hear of Shay's passing. I'll be thinking of you as you navigate life without her. Praying for God's comfort.
Matthew Lingle ( biscuit )
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Praying for the raycher fam. Always here for yall.
Brant & Michelle Joyner
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
So sorry to hear about Shay. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with your family during this time.
Sherry Bunker Wilson
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember playing ball with Shay when we were young. She was always so sweet and kind. Heaven is a little bit lighter with Shay there. She will be missed.
Wendell & Gail Nier
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
We are saddened about Shay's passing. Our prayer is that our Lord will give your family peace, love, and comfort in the days that follow. May you all be blessed.
Your friends, Wendell & Gail Nier
Leslie Wilbourn
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
My deepest condolences and prayers to Shay's family and friends. We went to law school together and I remember her being one of the kindest humans I had ever had the privilege of knowing.
John Saugey
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about Shay. She was always happy and upbeat and sure to make you smile! My condolences to the family and prayers for you all.
Danna Sawrie
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Hayden, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with yout family.
Mrs. Sawrie.
Karen Hopson
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I was so sad to hear of Shay's passing. I hadn't talked to her in years, but I have fond memories of playing softball together in the summers growing up. We were on the same team and she was always so nice. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Wilson family.๐
Jake & Dora Dean Wilf
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Praying for all the family Jim & Barbara, Nicole and Family and Hayden, Sayer. Shay was such a joy being around working with her in the estate sales. Forever loved and missed by so many. Praying for comfort and peace during this time and days ahead. ๐๐โค๏ธโค๏ธ
Marilyn Bolton
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I can't express how sorry I am for your untimely loss of Shay. What a funny outgoing person she was and always so welcoming to one and all. May your sweet memories and knowing Shay is in the arms of God comfort you.
John Schrieber
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Very sorry for your loss. Met Shay while in graduate school at UCA. Great lady.
Debra Griffith
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Such a beautiful person, inside and out! Prayers for her children, family, and friends.
Alyce Hardee
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I am so very sorry. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers. Your mom was a wonderful person and I am sure she will be with you every day as your guardian angel. Hugs and prayers.
Monica Hutchison
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
How I loved Shay. She was my across the street neighbor on Conway, and I was the recipient of some of those late night conversations! Shay, you raised two amazing children. How missed you will be by so many. All my love and prayers to your family.
Leslie Weaver Huntsman
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. May you be comforted with great memories and prayers from those that had the pleasure and honor of knowing her.
Jeannie Stroth
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
My heart aches for Shay's children, Sayer and Hayden, also Nicole, and her family, and Shay's parents. The tributes say it all. From early childhood to teen years to college to career and motherhoodโฆ Shay touched so many lives with her jubilant, positive, and easy going nature. I first came to know Shay when our children were in grade school. More recently, a neighbor of my good friend Ericka French, I had the good fortune to have some of those (what turned out to be) late night chats. What started as a happy hour ended up concluding post-midnight. The time flew with great and insightful conversation. She didn't chit chat about meaningless blither. She had a broader, more important and thoughtful agenda. Never one to judge or look down on anyone, Shay always saw the positive in people and was very open-minded. She was curious and always learning. She cared deeply and from all these comments surely knows how deeply everyone cared for her. We can all learn from Shay and how she treated others, how she loved others. What a treasure we lost.
MaryKay and Larry L James
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Oh my, dear precious Barbara and Jim Wilson we do not have words to express our sorrow in hearing about your dear Shay. Both of our boys, Chris and Marcus texted us โฆ please know our thoughts and our prayers are with you as you face these coming days and months. May our Holy God begin to fill you empty places!!!! You both are greatly loved. Mkay & Larry
Roger L Dobbins
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Condolences to the family. I know this was a shock at her age. Shay saw us when we visited the contemporary service at her Conway church. We were deciding where to attend and she was encouraging us to attend her church. I was surprised she remembered us after so long.
William O. "Bill" James Jr.
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
She leaves us all better for knowing her. It reminds us how fragile life is.
She will be missed.
Pat Lowery Hambrick
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Jim, Barbara, and all of Shay's family, my deepest condolences to you all for this great loss. May the prayers of so many help you through this most difficult time.
Jerry R Rogers
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Donna and I send our condolences to Barbara and Jim Wilson and family for the loss of Shay Wilson Raycher .
Sincere wishes to all,
Donna and Jerry Rogers
Amy Johnson
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Special prayers for Nicole & the kids. Wonderful tribute.
Stacy Wiley
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was a wonderful person and she was so smart and had a great personality. A friend to all. Praying for your family. God bless you all.
Lorie Hoofman Miller
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was such a precious friend to me growing up! We spent many summers playing softball on the same city league team and enjoyed celebrating our birthdays together! I loved keeping in touch with her through Facebook. I am so very saddened by your loss but I do know that Heaven is much sweeter with Shay there! Praying for comfort and peace for you all that can only come from our Heavenly Father!
Carolyn Bass
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Oh, this is such a shock. My prayers are with the entire family. May God give you comfort.
Jerry and Ann Carlton
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
So sad and shocked to learn of the passing of Shay. Our thoughts and prayers go out for all the family during this sad time. It is never easy to lose loved ones because they will be so missed by family and friends. However, the memories made by everyone who knew Shay will last forever. Although Shay has left us at a younger age than you would expect, we have comfort in knowing she is now in a better place. Ann and I extend our sincere condolences to Jim and Barbara and all the family members during this time of loss. We pray that God will comfort each of you in a special way.
Jerry & Ann Carlton, Fayetteville
Faye Woodham Hall
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Jim, Barbara and family so sorry for your loss sending ๐ข โค๏ธ
Hallie Leicht
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear that Shay has passed away. I lived on the same floor as her my first year at Hendrix. I will remember her as a kind and down to earth person. Prayers for all who are grieving.
Evelyn McKenna
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
My deepest sympathies to the Raychers, Wilsons and Sloughs. I am praying for you all.
Laura Kehler Shue
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was such a kind, caring, and fun-loving friend. Met her in law school a while ago and have many happy memories with her and our fellow law students. We planned a reunion together with a special group last year and Shay was always positive and helpful. We will all miss her so much. My condolences to her family and friends.
Brandon J. Harrison
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
"She loved her work, and even more so, the people she worked with."
Having had the great privilege to work with Shay at the Court of Appeals for more than a dozen years, I can say with certainty that she served the People of Arkansas with excellence and integrity. Always. Shay's dedication to public service, and the courteous and complete manner in which she provided it for nearly three decades, is a model the rest of us will strive to meet---now and in the future.
To Shay's Family:
I am sorry for your deep loss. I will hold Shay in the pantheon of great lawyers this State has produced. More important, Shay will be remembered as a loving mother and engaging friend. She would bring a smile to my face whenever our paths crossed. I will miss her. Godspeed Shay.
Kate Odum
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Last time I saw her, she was offering my family support after the loss of my Nana in May. I can't believe that was the last time. I'm so sorry for your loss, she was a wonderful person. I can't attend the service, but you have my best wishes and you'll be in my thoughts.
Kay Hoofman Helm
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
My heart breaks for each of you. Shay was that special young woman who excelled in life, love, friends and especially her family! My family was blessed to have her touch our lives in her young years and throughout her later life! Friends are never forgotten and the precious memories will never fade but cherished for the rest of our lives! Our prayers and love go out to each of you!
Evelyn Lunday
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I met Shay when she attended Southwest Middle School. Even then she exuded confidence and joy wherever she went. She could light up a room with her smile and seemed to have the ability to encourage others. Through the years, she kept up with her ole teachers through Facebook. Shay's light will be missed and I pray for her family. Heaven became brighter as they welcomed our Shay. ๐๐โ๏ธโค๏ธ
Leah (Faith) Brooks
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay and I go all the way back to our days in Brownie girl scouts and Searcy schools! The Wilson family was always so kind and I remember them fondly; I didn't see Shay often, but it was always fun to reconnect. She is and will be missed.
Shannon
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I am so very sorry for your loss. Shay was a warm and gentle light in a world that can be cold and harsh. She was always willing to lend a hand, and she had the best smile. Prayers of peace and healing to all of you.
Beth Wilson
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I can't believe she's gone!
Always so sweet and fun to be with. I didn't get to talk to her much lately, but we would just pick up where we left off
I will miss you, Shay
Betty Roberson
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was such a sweet spirit. I loved getting to know her. I always loved talking with her when she came to Searcy to get her hair cut with Chad. I always loved encouraging her to try on cute things in the Boutique. She made me laugh and I so learned to love her. Heavens gain and our loss. Prayers for Jim and Barbara and all her family. ๐๐๐
Kate Wyly-Terral
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was a light that can never be replaced. I will miss her dearly. My thoughts and prayers to her family, especially her children, whom she adored with everything she had.
Cara Brookins
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Sending love and peace to Shay's family and friends. Such a beautiful light that will continue shining through everyone who knew her.
Susan Helm
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Hank and I are so sorry for your loss. Shay was a remarkable, friendly person. So smart. I know she will be missed so much. We will pray for her family. Love to the Wilson's.
Phyllis Arellano
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I'm stunned. Shay has been a precious person to me all the way back to when I was in first grade and she was about to be born. I can't even find word to express my prayer to comfort you all. Love and good vibes to Jom, Barbara and Nicole and all of Shay'ms friends and family. VAYA con dios
Tony Robinson
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was an amazing person and will be missed dearly. My deepest condolences on your loss. Sayer and Hayden, you guys and your entire family are in our prayers. May God grant you peace in this moment.
Sue Benefiel
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
My heart goes out to her family and kids.
Michelle Sutton
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shady and I have been friends throughout our lives. My favorite childhood memories, high school, college trips and adventures include Shay. We didn't see each other very often in later years but we picked right up and always loved having a good conversation and time together. I will miss her dearly. My love and prayers are with all of her family.
Robin Pruitt
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I am heartbroken to hear of Shay's passing. She was such a delight to be around. I was in Girl Scouts with Shay and Nicole and would later work at ALCO with both girls. I lift the family up in prayer at this most difficult time.
Jim
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay made the world a better place, taken far too soon- she will leave a whole in the world. Hugs to all who are hurting at this difficult time.
Emily Walter
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was an amazing woman. I am so blessed to get to know her as we watched our children grow up together. She loved her kids fiercely and was an incredible mom. Prayers and hugs to the family.
Ralph and Sally Burns
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
We are so sorry for your loss, peace be with the family in this difficult time. ๐๐
Barbara S Duncan
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was so wonderfully friendly and loving, a delight to be around. She has gone away too soon but she made so many folks happy while she was with us. We will always love her and miss her.
Tami Marsh
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I'm deeply about the loss of Shay for her family as well as her friends
Rhonda (Cowan) Davis
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I went to school with Shay at Searcy and we lost touch when I moved away in the 6th grade, but we later reconnected through Facebook. Years ago, when we were kids, Shay would come to my house and we would do gymnastics in the front yard with Chris (Thompson) Rambo, and Rachel Hodges-Iodence. Shay was a good person with a huge heart and she was always kind to people. She will be missed and I encourage her family to lean on God and let Him be their guiding light. I pray that in time, her family & friends will find peace in the beautiful memories that were created, so that she will continue to live on in their hearts.
Dana Barger Jones
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Mr. and Mrs. Wilson, and Nicole,
It sounds so cliche, but I cannot even begin to put into words how sorry I am to hear of your loss. Although, I always knew of her through you and Searcy ties, Shay was seven years younger, so I did not know her well. However, I recently had the opportunity to chat with her at a small birthday party. After reading her wonderful tribute/obituary, and despite the age difference, I think we could have been great friends. It seemed we shared many of the same interests. I am so happy she got to experience the trip of her dreams; so many will die with that one still on their bucket lists. For that I know you are grateful as well. May you be blessed with many heart-warming thoughts of your time together and the peace in knowing she is in a better place. You will be in Eddie and my prayers! Dana
Reba Wingfield
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Condolences and prayers for Shay's family.
Mary Beth Weir-Waters
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
We will miss your Sweet Smile and loving heart. Prayers and love to all of the family.
Irene Gray
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I have watched Shay grow up and we have stayed in touch over the years. She was my office helper at Southwest Middle School and one of the kids with us on church trips when I went along to cook for the group, including the ski trip when we brought her back on crutches. I will miss keeping up with her and her adventures. My sincere condolences to her family. I am sorry for missing her service but will be out of state.
Irene Gray
Zach Schrick
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay will always hold a place in my life! I still remember the last time I saw her was in Home Depot and we talked for a while, of course, about her kids. Oh how she loved telling about Hayden and Sayer. She will be greatly missed and I will miss our sporadic moments of catching up in whatever store we found ourselves in that day. My heart goes out to the family! Two things always! Always!
Sheila Sterka
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was such a beautiful person and will be missed by so many. Heaven gained another angel. Rest in peace.
Jennifer gift (Dr Flanagins)
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Oh my goodness we loved seeing Shay. I'm so sorry for your loss prayers for the family!
Jim Counts
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay's outgoing personality , her smile and love for others was limitless ! She lived life on earth as she knew one day it would end but she lives now because of how she lived on earth โ" may God continue to bless her family !!!!
George Greene
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Shay. Although I didn't have the privilege of knowing her as long as some, I enjoyed reading about her travel adventures and appreciated the times we communicated in person and via social media. RIP sweet soul. Your legacy will live on in the lives of Sayre and Hayden.
linda H Lee
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Shay was one of my favorite former students in Middle School. She was a delight to have in class. Prayers as you learn to live without your precious Shay.
Deb Asbury
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I did not know Shay well, but met her thru our true crime book club and we also played trivia a few times together. I know she will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Kim Truebenbach
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Craig and I are shocked. Our deepest condolences to Sayer and Hayden and Shay's family and friends.
Matthew Bintliff
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. It doesn't seem real. I was just admiring her vacation pictures and thinking how cool she is for going to all the parks I've been dreaming about. You all will be in my heart and prayers.
Leon moon
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
She was avery sweet lady. I work around her for about 20 years she always had a big smile. When she came through the front door.