OBITUARY: Douglas Wayne Ray Sr., 67, of Bertram dies April 30, 2013
Douglas Wayne Ray Sr. was born June 30, 1945, in Burnet to Ellis and Jessie Simpson Ray. Doug lost his courageous battle with cancer April 30, 2013, at his home in Bertram with his family at his side.
He was preceded in death by his father, mother, two brothers and two sisters.
He is survived by his wife of more than 46 years, Judy Amidon Ray; daughter, Sandra Thornhill, and her children, Brandon and Katelyn, all of Bertram; son Douglas Wayne Ray Jr. of New Braunfels; and son Joe Ray and wife Diedre and their children, Evan and Andie of Burnet. Doug had many close friends who he treasured and one who was like a brother to him: Joe Havard of Austin. He had many lifelong friends and extended family who also will miss him.
Doug accepted Christ at a young age and was a member of Mahomet Christian Church. He loved farming and ranching and spent most of his 67 years on the farm where he grew up. He was most content sitting on his tractor plowing a field. He loved raising and selling hay, vegetables and watermelons, mostly because it gave him the opportunity to visit with friends and make new ones.
He loved raising and caring for his cattle. Doug loved deer hunting and looked forward every year to the start of deer season. As a young boy growing up, he trained dogs for hunting raccoons up and down the creeks in the area. Doug and his son Joe spent many enjoyable Saturdays sand drag racing their car at Ponotoc.
Doug was retired from Burnet County, where he worked for road and bridge after 24 years of service. He was a very hardworking man and took good care of his family.
A graveside service and burial were May 3 at Bear Creek Cemetery in Bertram with the Rev. John Davenport officiating. Pallbearers were Bob Miller, Billy Dixon, Danny Havard, Bobby Insall, Bennie Taylor and Mike Whitted. Honorary pallbearers were Sammy Watts, Wayne Drosche, Joe Havard, Floyd Watson, Eldon Williams and Red Blair.
The family asks memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements by Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home, 306 Texas 29 East in Burnet, (512) 756-2222. Condolences may be offered at www.clementswilcoxburnet.com.