Dr. Harold Ray
Dr. Harold Ray, 70, of Orange, passed away on February 16, 2017, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.
Born in Orange, Texas, on September 16, 1946, he was the son of Noble Ray and Lora (Gingrich) Ray. Dr. Ray was a 1965 graduate of Little Cypress High School and 1971 graduate of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. His early love of animals fueled his passion to become a veterinarian. He began his career in Weslaco, Texas. Dr. Ray returned to Orange and opened North Orange Veterinary Clinic where he practiced until his retirement. He was very compassionate with the animals he treated as well as their owners. He also enjoyed collecting antiques.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Sharon Amen Ray; and his second wife, Patricia Ann Ray.
He is survived by his son, Shawn Ray and his wife, Christie of Vidor; his grandchildren, Katelyn and Kristen Ray; his great-granddaughter, Rylee Cathey; his companion, Janice Ustinovich, of Orange; his brothers, Roger Ray and his wife, Marcia of Orange, and Hugh Dean Ray and his wife, Ellen of Orange; he is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m., Sunday, February 19, 2017, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Pastor E. Dale Lee of Cowboy Church of Orange County. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m., Sunday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Condolences
Melissa Lopez
February 21, 2017
Shawn, I just saw about your dad's passing and my family is so sorry that we could not be there for his funeral. From the time your dad stopped by on his way home to check on my dog who had cancer when I was in elementary school to giving my boys a summer job doing yard work to help them earn money, your dad was always a loving and caring man. Missy Snow Lopez and family
Jane Taylor
February 20, 2017
Hugh Dean and Roger, Your brother was one of the kindest friends I ever had. We started first grade together, so we knew each other for a long time! When we were in sixth grade, Harold and I were chosen to represent Little Cypress as "Best Citizens" in the Kids' Day Parade in Orange. We got to ride in a convertible in the parade and we each received a certificate and got to meet Mr. Edgar Brown. When Greg and I married and were at A&M, we enjoyed getting together with Harold. And, of course, he took care of our dogs for many years. Greg and I will always remember Harold's soft-spoken, gentleness. I will cherish those memories in my heart. Jane Skinner Taylor
Willey
February 19, 2017
yes he is darn good man every time we talk he all ways show big smile and never forget is great voice he is best friend for every one that loves him shall never
Linda Deblanc
February 18, 2017
I send my sympathy to the family members of Harold. Harold was a 1965 Little Cypress classmate of mine. I was not surprised when Harold became a veterinarian. He was such a kind person, and I know that he used that manner with animals and the owners as well. He will be missed by all of his classmates and the Orange community. Rest in peace Harold. Linda DeBlanc
Rebecca Sonier
February 18, 2017
Such a kind person. Always took my dogs to him. Will always remember his soft kind voice
Claybar Funeral Home
February 18, 2017
1 file added to the album LifeTributes
Claybar Funeral Home
February 18, 2017
49 files added to the album LifeTributes
Gary Self
February 17, 2017
I always enjoyed taking our pets to him
because I would get to talk to Harold. He was always kind, reasonable, and articulate. I remember specifically the time when he invited me to watch a surgery on our cat. He explained every detail. of the surgery. That was a fun afternoon. I remember that he respected the owners because they had chosen to care for animals. I enjoyed Harold at family gatherings . He had many interests. I am proud to call him my friend. You will be missed.
Gordon Pirie, Dvm
February 17, 2017
I am a classmate of Harold at A&M. He had a kind, gentle demeanor and no doubt was a compassionate veterinarian. My sympathies go to the family. We have a very special class and he was a special part of it and I am saddened by his passing. Gordon Pirie, DVM '71 Baton Rouge, La.
Stan Zbylot
February 17, 2017
I remember well the first time I met Harold---breakfast at Texas A&M Sbisa Dining Hall in 1968. He had 6 glasses of water, lemonade & tea on his tray with his food---no milk ! When I finally inquired he told me about his life battle vs kidney stones. We were on several small groups through Veterinary school. He was a wonderful friend I will surely miss him. Stan Zbylot
Travis Deen, Dvm
February 17, 2017
Harold was a veterinary classmate that was very much liked by all in our class of 1971. I remember him as being a quiet person who was always a kind friendly member of our veterinary class. He will be missed by his classmates. Rest in peace old friend. My condolences to his family. Travis Deen, DVM '71 Wills Point, Texas