Ray Phink

Ray Frank Phink, an avid fisherman and kind-hearted soul, went to be with the Lord on May 22, 2025, at the age of 97. He passed away peacefully in Houston, Texas, where he had made his home for the past three years.

Born on October 2, 1927, in Grapevine, Texas, Ray was the son of Ray Lilburn and Sarah Alice Phink. He grew up in Kennedale, Texas, attended local schools, and earned his GED after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, where he attained the rank of Seaman 2nd Class. In 1944, he married Bessie Boyd Phink, with whom he reared two daughters. Ray served on the Kennedale ISD school board and was president of the Quarterback Club, showing his dedication to education and community.

Ray retired after 35 years with Southwestern Bell Telephone (now AT&T), leaving a legacy of integrity and loyalty. In 1974, he married Mary Elizabeth Youngblood Phink, embracing the role of a loving stepparent to her four children.

A true Texan, Ray cherished his family, friends, and the great outdoors. He found joy in golfing, hunting, fishing, and recently, cooking. His abiding faith and kind spirit touched the lives of many.

Ray is survived by his daughters, Kaye Lenox of Seoul, South Korea, and Joyce Lazzara of Houston, Texas; grandson Joseph Lenox and wife Bomi of Seoul; granddaughter Michole Easterly and husband George of Houston; great-grandsons Walter Easterly of Houston and Noah Lenox of Seoul; and great-granddaughter Alice Easterly of Houston. He is also survived by his stepchildren Monty Lopez of Panama, Gary Lopez of Sargent, Denise Jackson of Burleson, and Becky Norman of Sargent, along with Mary's grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he embraced as his own.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Ray's many friends and his Bethesda Church family for their unwavering love and support during this time. Ray will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his generosity, love, and the joy he brought to all those around him.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Mountain Valley Funeral Home in Joshua, Texas on Friday afternoon, May 30, 2025. Visitation 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M., funeral service will begin at 2:00 P.M. and graveside service for family members will be held at Tye Cemetery in Burleson, Texas. There will be a reception following at 4:00 P.M. at Bethesda Baptist Church in Burleson, Texas.