Margaret Daisy Ray, nearly 97, passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of strength, wisdom, wit, and unwavering love for those she considered family. Funeral Service for Margaret will be at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at West Oaks Funeral Home with Pastor Jimmy Rogers officiating.
Margaret was born on January 5, 1929, in Hopkins County, Texas, and grew up during the Great Depression.
Those early years profoundly shaped her outlook on life, instilling in her a strong work ethic, deep resilience, and an enduring belief in the importance of independence, curiosity, and compassion.
She often encouraged those she loved to “broaden their horizons,” a phrase that became a guiding principle she lived by herself.
After graduating from high school, Margaret attended beauty school in Tyler, Texas. During this time, she met and fell in love with Gerald Ray. The two were married on April 19, 1947, beginning a devoted partnership that would carry them across Texas and Oklahoma as Gerald worked in the oil fields.
Eventually, they settled in Houston, where Margaret began a career with Sears in the 1950s. Through determination and excellence, she rose through the ranks to become one of the company’s first female managers.
Margaret took great pride in her work and, even more, in the people she mentored. She formed lasting bonds with the young women she supervised, offering guidance, encouragement, and lifelong support.
Many of these relationships became cherished friendships that endured for decades. In the 1960s, Margaret left Sears and moved with Gerald to Tyler, Texas, where she assisted with his geophysical business.
Their life together continued to be one of movement and adventure, traveling extensively throughout the United States. Margaret’s love of travel flourished alongside Gerald’s work, ultimately taking her to every continent except Antarctica — a remarkable accomplishment she enjoyed sharing with others. Sharon B. Hughes, a daughter-like figure in her life, documented her travels.
In the 1980s, Margaret and Gerald settled in Garland, Texas, where she was introduced to local country music opry’s. Music had always been close to her heart; she possessed a beautiful singing voice and sang often during her school years and throughout her life. Those who heard her sing remember both her talent, her musical ear for talent, and the joy she found in it. Elvis Presley was her all-time favorite Artist.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Brooks H. Stout and Daisy A. Stout; her beloved husband, Gerald D. Ray; her daughter, Brenda R. Ray; her sister, Mary A. Bramlett; and her nephew, Randall Bramlett.
She is survived by her longtime companion and caregiver niece, Teresa Bramlett; her great- nephew, Jeremiah Bramlett; and chosen family daughter, Belinda Miller and her cherished goddaughters, Rendee Bullard Hahnfeld, Christinna Oldham, and Margaret LeAnn Rimes.
She is also lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members on both sides of the Ray family, all of whom she held close to her heart.
Margaret was a mother figure to many, a mentor to countless young women, and a steady source of advice, encouragement, and unconditional love.
She carried herself with grace, resilience, and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Her Legacy will be one known for wisdom beyond her years, and she was widely regarded as the strongest woman anyone ever knew.
“She lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a life beautifully lived.” – the Family. Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home. www.westoaksfuneralhome.com
