Raymond Lee McKee

1936 - 2022

Raymond Lee McKee, dedicated son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Conroe, Texas on November 20, 2022.

Raymond was best known for his quick-witted humor, generous spirit and his desire to make things beautiful. Even after his stroke, you could sometimes find him outside in his wheelchair watering plants with his good hand. He loved Jesus, good music, was devoted to his family, and to West Conroe Baptist Church. Raymond was a seasoned traveler, both domestic and abroad, and was always planning for the next trip-and for the next dessert to satisfy his sweet tooth!

Raymond was born to John and Leona McKee in Houston, Texas on June 29, 1936. He met Barbara, the love of his life and future wife of 66 years, in seventh grade. She was his forever sweetheart and he never had eyes for anyone else. They married in 1956 and welcomed their first child, Marlene in 1958, and Mitchell in 1961. The family moved to Conroe in 1968 where together, Raymond and Barbara fulfilled their dream of starting their own business, The Conroe Towne Shop. In 1989, they invited Jason into their family. Raymond's many "adopted" children and grandchildren affectionally called him Papa Bear, Ba, Papa and Popi.

Among other family members, Raymond cared for his mother throughout his life, and in later years, her sisters, too. He affectionately referred to them as "the Loved Ones". The family continues to learn of Raymond's many acts of kindnesses to others in the community.

Raymond was a Texas National Guardsman. He was one of the founders of Woodforest National Bank, serving on the board of directors for many years. He was also the first Executive Director of the Conroe Symphony. He and Barbara were founding members of West Conroe Baptist Church.

After 32 successful years, the Towne Shop closed and Raymond retired to be a "full time volunteer" at WCBC. He found great fulfillment in selecting beautiful things for the church from the trees and shrubs to pews and paintings. He served on various committees and was on the building committee for every building on campus until his stroke in 2019.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Barbara; children Marlene Ditmore and husband Randy, Mitchell McKee, Jason Wild Sr and wife Leslie; grandchildren Amy Whitt and husband Jonathon, Derrick Ditmore and wife Adriana, Zachary McKee, Ashley McKee, Jacie Albanez and husband Mario, Delane Bennett and husband Jared, Benjamin McKee and wife Gabriella, Jenny Beitel and husband Bryan, Jason Wild Jr and Cole Wild; and 15 great-grandchildren



Friends and family are invited to gather in the chapel of West Conroe Baptist Church on Sunday December 4, to celebrate Raymond's life. Visitation will be at 1 PM followed by a memorial service at 2 PM.