Ray Max Williams' Obituary
Ray Max Williams was born on September 14, 1936 in Coleman Texas. Ray was the only child of Johney Dell Gordon Williams and Leonard Ray Williams.
Ray Max, as referred to by close family and friends, lived in many places as a toddler due to his dad’s job. They finally settled in Abilene, which became home. Ray graduated from Abilene High School in 1954, Hardin Simmons University in 1960 earning a BBA in Accounting. After college, Ray began working for Sears Robuck, which moved him to several places as his career progressed.
Labor Day 1964, Ray had his first date, with who would become his soulmate, Jo Ann Young . Jo Ann, also an Abilene native, was introduced to Ray by dear family friends. They married February 19, 1965.
Sears moved the couple to Tyler where they welcomed a bouncing baby girl. Kimberly Rae Williams was the apple of their eye and their only child. The couple moved to Longview where Ray continued his work with Sears, Jo Ann sold real estate, Kimberly twirled the baton and they all cheered for their Longview Lobos. In 1986, they moved to Garland, Texas which is still home today. During this time, Ray changed careers to become a banker at United Texas Bank, retiring in 2005. Ray always said that his banking job was the best job ever.
In 1996 Ray and Jo Ann gained a son in law, Kevin Mark Gunn, who became a true son to them. Kim and Kevin had two beautiful girls, Kailee and Kelsey. Both beautiful young ladies, who Ray and Jo Ann could not be prouder, are attending college and excelling.
Ray was more than a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, he was a great friend, avid golfer, football fan, uncle, cousin, and a friend to any animal he passed.
Sadly Ray passed away on January 2nd. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, James and Rachel Young, his brother in law, Mike Barksdale, his son in law, Kevin Gunn, many close friends and family members plus all the fur babies he cared for over the years.
Ray is survived by his wife of 60 years Jo Ann, daughter Kimberly Gunn, granddaughters Kailee and Kelsey Gunn, sister in law Janet Young Barksdale, nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.
Ray, Daddy, PayPay was one of a kind to never be replicated or replaced. We love you so much and will miss you beyond words. They broke the mold when Ray Max was born. A true southern gentleman.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to the charity of your choice or one of the following:
Spondylitis Association of America
https://spondylitis.org/get-involved/donate/
Operation Kindness
https://www.operationkindness.org/
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