John William Ray

John W. Ray, 88, of Brazoria, Texas, passed away on Thursday, April 28, 2022. He was born in Canton, North Carolina, on March 12, 1934, to parents Roy and Lora Ray.

 Johnny, as he was affectionately known, was a hard-working man who lived his life with strong integrity. He was a proud Veteran who was always willing to help others and was there for anyone who needed a helping hand.

Johnny grew up in the mountains of North Carolina and loved telling stories of his childhood, driving a school bus, his time serving in the Army, and most importantly falling in love with his wife, Edith. Johnny and Edith had a love that writers could only dream to capture and people could only aspire to have. They grew up together, fell in love, and were married for sixty-five years.

Two days after being married, Edith and Johnny moved to Texas. Johnny worked at and retired from Nalco Chemical. They also had two children, Philip and Susan, followed by four grandchildren.

Johnny was so proud of each of his children and grandchildren. He loved them deeply and enjoyed spending time with them, telling stories, picking on them and working on or supervising projects. Johnny was quick-witted and people would spend hours at Johnny and Edith’s house listening to stories.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, and two sisters. 

 He leaves behind his loving wife Edith Ray of Brazoria; son, Philip Ray and wife Debbie of Brazoria; daughter, Susan Tumlinson and husband Deryl of Angleton; grandchildren, Tabitha Walles and husband David of Brazoria, Coby Tumlinson of Austin, Ashlyn Tumlinson of Angleton and Rachel Ray of Brazoria; his special nieces, Karen Rathbone of Clyde, North Carolina and Linda Haney of Killen, Alabama; and his sister-in-law, Judi VanNewhouse and Husband Rick; along with many other relatives and friends.

The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, May 3, at Brazoria First Assembly of God. Visitation will be from 12:00-1:00 p.m. with the funeral beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Pallbearers are Philip Ray, Deryl Tumlinson, Coby Tumlinson, Dave Walles, Carter Looney and Alex VanNewhouse.

Final arrangements entrusted to Dixon Funeral Home of Brazoria at (979) 798-9113.        

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