Ray W. Thompson, age 83, passed away May 14, 2025, in Plano, Texas. He was born on August 2, 1941, in Ada, Oklahoma, to his loving parents Neal Thompson and Claudean (Chisholm) Thompson.
After graduating from Lubbock Senior High, Ray continued his education at Texas Tech University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees. His professional journey led him into the defense and computer industry, where he dedicated his skills and knowledge to meaningful work that made a lasting impact.
Ray met the love of his life, Kristi Martin, and on August 17, 1963, they celebrated their love and lifelong commitment to each other, in Houston, Texas. Family was at the heart of everything. Raising their daughters Tonya and Ashley brought them many years of joy and countless cherished memories.
Ray was a proud member of Phi Gamma Delta and had a deep love for music, playing many instruments throughout his life. A longtime member of the Dallas Banjo Band, he brought joy to many with his talent and passion. He was also an avid reader, a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, and always had a good joke ready—especially a classic Dad joke. His warmth, humor, and enthusiasm for life will be dearly missed.
Ray is survived by his wife, Kristi, of Dallas, Texas; daughters, Tonya M. Thompson (Michael Berry), of North Little Rock, Arkansas, and Ashley T. Ewing, of Collierville, Tennessee; granddaughters, Brenna Elizabeth Berry and Jillian Marie Berry of North Little Rock, Arkansas; grandsons, Lawson Taylor Ewing, of Dallas, Texas, and Preston Riley Ewing, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and a host of extended family members and friends, who will miss him dearly and forever cherish his memory.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Neal and Claudean Thompson. He requested no service or viewing and preferred to be remembered as he was prior to leaving us.