Carlton David Ring

Carlton David "Carl" Ring, 70, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2026, the day of his thirty-fourth wedding anniversary to his beloved wife, Doris.

Carl was born January 10, 1956, in Fort Knox, Kentucky while his father served in the Army, and they didn’t stay put there for long. He was then raised in Arcade, New York, before eventually putting down roots in Houston, Texas. As the oldest of seven siblings, being one of “those Ring boys” was more than a childhood label—it was a reputation built on mischief, stories, and unforgettable energy that followed him throughout his life.

If you had to sum Carl up in one word, most people would say crazy—and mean it as the highest compliment. He was bold, hilarious, bluntly honest, and completely unfiltered. You never quite knew what he was going to say next, but you knew it would make you laugh. Despite his fearless humor and colorful language, Carl lived life with an easy calm, guided by his favorite saying: “Life doesn’t have to be that hard.” And somehow, just by being around him, it wasn’t.

A dedicated machinist, Carl took great pride in his work and was known for mentoring others, generously sharing his lifetime of knowledge. Even after retiring from Ladish Valves, he frequently returned just to visit coworkers—especially his nephew, Justin—because work was never just work to him; it was family.

He loved animals deeply, especially birds. Though he once said “NO” to a macaw, DK quickly became his constant companion—perched on his shoulder during the day and sleeping beside him at night. Whether walking the neighborhood, cruising Crystal Beach on a golf cart, or relaxing at home, Carl and his birds never met a stranger.

Carl loved classic rock turned up loud, grilling in the backyard, late-night conversations, Renaissance festivals, and collecting swords. He was a true fixer—if something broke, Carl was the first call. And if he couldn’t fix it, he’d still give it a hell of a try… with a joke along the way.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Carlton Jesse Ring and Jacquelyn Hope “Jackie” Valentine.

He is survived by his wife, Doris Jean Ring; his daughter, Candice Ring-Herrera; his sons, Jason and John Calcote; and his grandchildren, Kalvin, Blade, Hunter, Jason, and Russel. He is also survived by his siblings: Michael Ring (Margaret), Pamela Miller (Patrick), Patricia Arnold (Edward), Phil Ring, Gary Ring, and Thomas Ring, as well as many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends, including Dan George and Rickey Haudricourt.

Carl will be remembered for his booming laughter, his habit of calling everyone “Peaches” or “Pumpkin,” and his rare ability to make the world feel lighter just by being in it. Carl believed in enjoying life while you had it and he did exactly that.

A funeral service celebrating Carl's life, officiated by preacher Jamie Cobb will be held in the chapel of the Madisonville Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 11 A.M. followed by burial in the Park Cemetery. Visitation will take place one hour before the service beginning at 10 A.M.

Pallbearers:  Jason Calcote, Blade Herrera, Joey Gross, Mike Ring, Justin Ring, Kalvin Herrera.

Final arrangements for Carlton "Carl" Ring are under the compassionate care and direction of Madisonville Funeral Home, Madisonville, Texas.