Merlene Audrey Ray Besoni

Merlene Audrey Ray Besoni

Lakeport, CA – Merlene Audrey Ray Besoni, a beloved matriarch and the last vibrant link to a cherished generation, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a profound legacy of family and love. Born on May 30, 1929, Merlene's early life was deeply rooted in the traditions and community of her birthplace, where she was born and raised on the Sugar Bowl Rancheria (Scotts Valley Rancheria) in Lakeport, California.

Though Lakeport was always her home base, Merlene's journey also led her to Oakland. There, she owned Merle's Hilltop Tavern, an important establishment in the 1960s known as a vital gathering place for Native Americans. This significant part of her life's tapestry unfolded as the tavern served as a meeting point for early discussions of the American Indian Movement (AIM) and the organization of the Alcatraz takeover, before Merlene eventually returned to her beloved home in Lake County.

Merlene was preceded in death by her loving parents, Eugine Ray and Bessy Augustine-Ray, and her dear siblings: Teresa Ray Boggs, Batrice Arnold, Buela Elliot Ray, Rose Miller-Ray, Ben Ray, and Douglass Ray. Victoria Joyce Arnold-Gonzalez, Dwayne Arnold, and Victor Arnold, Chris Ray, her stepchildren Louella Arnold, Donna May Arnold, Raymond Arnold, Bill Arnold, Ronni Arnold, and her grandchild Nathan Arnold. She is now reuniting with her beloved family.

She is survived by a large and loving family who will carry on her spirit: her stepdaughter Mary Jane Arnold her grandchildren Jesse Gonzales, Miguel Gonzales, Joseph Peredia, Angel Arnold, Andria Arnold and Raquell Arnold. Merlene's enduring spirit will also live on through her 18 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins, ensuring her legacy continues for generations to come.

Merlene Audrey Ray Besoni was truly the last of her generation, and her life was a testament to strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held from Friday, August 1, 2025 beginning at 12 noon through Monday, August 4, 2025 1pm at Coyote Valley Gymnasium. Recitation of the Rosary will be on Sunday, August 3, 2025 at 4pm at Coyote Valley. Graveside services will be held at 2pm on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Ukiah Cemetery.