Donnald Ray Ayers

Ray Ayers passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Parks Senior Living in Odessa, Texas. He recently celebrated his 87th birthday.

Ray was born in Colorado City, Texas to John and Crinna Ayers on January 7, 1939. He attended Bowie Junior High and Odessa High School. Near the time he should have been thinking about retirement, he earned a General Education Diploma from Odessa College.

Ray married the love of his life, Margery Graves on July 18, 1956. They were married almost 68 years before her passing in June of 2024. Together they raised 3 children - daughter Debbie and spouse, David Sheehan of Gardendale; daughter Linda Burton of Spicewood; and son Donnie and spouse Tammy of Odessa. Numerous grandchildren, great grands and even a few great, great grands were guided by the love and care of their "grandpa".

Ray was a man of many hats. He worked as a bread delivery driver, a mechanic, a gas plant operator, and a truck driver. He owned and operated Ayers Automotive for several years. Naturally, he had a passion for race cars. He was one of many mechanics, drivers and fans that filled the Odessa Speedway every Friday night, back in the day! Dale Earnhardt was one of his favorite drivers. He had quite the collection of Earnhardt cars and hats. He enjoyed crafting goods from leather and building model trucks. Ray was happy eating a Jif peanut butter sandwich and milk every night before bed.

Ray enjoyed family time. Those times would have been cookouts, holiday gatherings or camping trips . . . as long as the family was around, he was happy. If you were to ask Ray what he was most proud of, no doubt he would tell you it was his wife and family. He loved each one dearly.

A graveside service to honor Ray will be held on February 20th, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 6801 E, I-20BL, Odessa, TX 79762.