Funeral services for Billy Wayne Ray, 83, of Lufkin, will be held Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Denman Avenue Baptist Church in Lufkin with Bro. Charles Roberts, Rev. Jacob Fitzgerald, and Bro. Ron Meadows officiating. Interment will follow at Largent Cemetery.

            Mr. Ray passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 21, 1942, in Lufkin, Billy lived most of his life in the town he cherished and called home. Billy graduated from Lufkin High School and attended Stephen F. Austin State University.

            A proud Navy veteran, Billy served his country as an aircraft engine mechanic – a role he held with honor and pride. After his military service, Billy worked for General Dynamics in Fort Worth as an electrician. After 4 years, Billy returned home and poured his heart into his work and community. He co-owned Ray’s Drive In with his late father JC and brother Jerry. After 25 years of service with the family business, he operated a carpentry business alongside his son, Nathan Ray. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident in every endeavor he took on.

            Billy was a devoted husband to his wife, Freda and a loving father to his children Calista, Julia, and Nathan. Their families: Calista Grant (husband Billy) (and children Austin, Crystal, and Britney), Julia Ray (Leanna and son Aaron), Nathan Ray (wife Jackie and children Birdie and Anson). He was a cherished “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren Austin Chambliss (wife Shacola and children Brayden, Aubrey,  Cali, and Demi), Crystal Bright ( husband Bailey and children Opal and Jasper), Britney Ortega (husband Wyatt), Aaron Evans, Birdie Ray and Anson Ray. He also leaves behind his beloved sisters, Glenda Lambot of Connecticut and Evelyn Castleberry and husband Bob, who continue to live in the family home in Lufkin. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved him dearly.

            He is preceded in death by his parents, JC and Opal Ray, and his brother, Jerry Ray.

            Billy had a deep love for gardening, reading, westerns, guns, and most of all – spending quality time with his family. He was a man of quiet strength, great humor, and steadfast faith.

            He was also a longtime and active member of Denman Avenue Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon and was a member of choir. His life was a shining example of devotion - to God, to family, and to the values he held dear.

            Billy Wayne Ray leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.

            Pallbearers will be Chuck Thomas, Chris Ray, Bob Castleberry, Jimmy Stanbery, Bailey Bright, and Wyatt Ortega.

            Honorary pallbearers will be Austin Chambliss, Aaron Evans, and Anson Ray.

            Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 19, 2025, at Denman Avenue Baptist Church in Lufkin.

            Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.