Albert Ray Beathard

In loving memory of Albert Ray Beathard, who passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026 at the age of 88. Born September 3,1937 in Huntsville, Texas. Ray was the oldest child and only son of Lloyd and Gladys Beathard. He and his sisters were raised as proud fourth generation Texans.

Ray attended Lamar High School in Houston, Texas. Though not yet of age to enlist, his father signed the paperwork allowing him to join the United States Navy in 1955. He was stationed aboard the USS Antietam in the Mediterranean Sea. During a leave home to Houston, Ray was introduced to Merle Guyton, starting a 69-year love story that would define his life. In 1957, Ray transitioned from active duty to the reserves and returned home. He and Merle were married on March 1,1957. Ray continued serving in the Naval Reserves until 1963 and remained ever proud of his service to his country.

Together, Ray and Merle built a full and busy life in Houston, welcoming three children-David, Kim and Colleen. Their home was lively and centered on family, with everyone expected to contribute. Education was a priority for Ray and Merle. With sacrifice and determination, they sent all three of their children to Catholic Schools for twelve years. Ray was especially proud that each of them graduated from college - a legacy of discipline and opportunity that meant a great deal to him.

Ray built a respected 42 year career in commercial air conditioning with the James Letsos Company. As Manager of Maintenance and a project start-up expert, he became known throughout the industry as a true troubleshooter; someone who could diagnose and fix almost any problem. He took pride in doing things the right way, earning the trust and respect of colleagues and clients.

Outside of work, Ray found tremendous joy in raising and showing Norwegian Elkhounds. For over 40 years, he and Merle traveled across the country to dog shows, building lifelong friendships along the way. Ray excelled in the sport, earning multiple Best in Show honors. He served for many years on the Board of National Norwegian Elkhound Association of America and was deeply respected within the community. His love for boating included the sports of floundering and shrimping.

In retirement, Ray and Merle discovered a special place in Walden, Colorado, where they spent many summers enjoying the extensive wildlife. Ray invested himself in the mountain community, developing great friendships and enjoying a slower pace of life.

Ray, known as "Grandpa" by his six grandchildren, shared a particularly close bond with each one. His well-lived life was described by his children and grandchildren as loyal, steadfast, bold, selfless, dependable, resilient, protector, courageous, full of integrity, always putting family first, a clever handyman, stoic heroism and a man who persevered to the end. His steady presence, quiet humor and unwavering love will be so deeply missed, remembered forever.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his sister, Eloise Reuter and his sister-in-law, Martha Guyton. He is survived by his beloved wife, Merle; his sister Kathleen Beathard de Leon; his brother-in-law Dewuse Guyton; his son David (Cathy) Beathard; daughters Kim Kendall and Colleen (Clyde) Pehl. He also leaves his cherished six grandchildren and four great grandchildren: Jack (Eiland) Beathard; Audrey (Jay) Almendarez and their children, Elliott and Lloyd; Daniel (Kim) Kendall; Hannah Kendall (fiancé Robby Pappas); Rachel (Miles) Autry and their daughter, Willa; Kelly Housley (fiancé Alec Hansen) and their son, Wes. Lastly, his loving extended family of nieces and nephews.

Rosary and Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27th, 2026 from 5-8pm at Bradshaw-Carter Funeral Home, 1734 W. Alabama St., Houston, Texas 77098. The Mass of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at 9am in the St.Ignatius Chapel on the campus of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, 8000 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, Texas 77036. Internment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery on Martin Luther King Drive in Huntsville, Texas. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Strake Jesuit College Preparatory (strakejesuit.org) or St. Agnes Academy (www.st-agnes.org), or Veterans Administration (https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/46647736/).