Billy Don Ray

1936 - 2026

Billy Don Ray

Billy Don Ray, a respected figure in the law enforcement community and a devoted family man, departed this life on February 5, 2026, in College Station, Texas, at the age of 89. Born on October 21, 1936, in Loraine, Texas, to Thomas Bennett Ray and Alma Powers Ray, Billy was the youngest of five children. His lively spirit brought both joy and challenges to his family, who were raising him during the difficult times of the Great Depression and World War II. He often reminisced about his upbringing in the close-knit community of Loraine, sharing cherished memories with his children.

Billy's dedication to public service began in 1960 when he joined the Midland Police Department (MPD). Displaying exceptional commitment and skill, he quickly advanced through the ranks, ultimately achieving the position of deputy chief of police before his retirement in 1993. Over his 32 years, 6 months and 22 days of service, he became a pioneer within the department, working several high-profile cases, some of which made national headlines. Following his retirement, he expressed his heartfelt wishes to his fellow officers in a letter, hoping they would find similar satisfaction upon concluding their own careers.

An avid runner, Billy took up the sport to manage asthma and high blood pressure, competing in numerous distance races, including Willie Nelson's 10k in Austin, Texas. In addition, he became the first MPD officer to attain an excellent rating in a newly established physical fitness program. His passion for sports extended beyond running; he and his beloved wife, Gerry, were dedicated supporters of Robert E. Lee High School, enjoying many seasons of Rebel football throughout Texas with their dear friends, Earl and Bette Luckey,

Education played a significant role in Billy's life. He graduated from Loraine High School in 1956 with a graduating class of 11. After joining MPD he furthered his education at Odessa College, earning an associate of arts degree in police science in 1971. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the prestigious FBI Academy in Washington, D.C., where he honed his skills in the latest crime prevention techniques.

In December 1957, Billy met the love of his life, Geraldine (Gerry) Laster, at a malt shop in Colorado City, Texas. Their love blossomed, leading to a marriage in a small Baptist Church in China Grove, Texas. Together, they created a lasting legacy filled with love and adventure, including memorable trips across the East Coast to explore Civil War battlefields-an area of history that fascinated Billy.

Billy is survived by his children, Cathy Dale Sperry and her husband Shane of Bryan, Texas, and Greg Ray and his wife Lynn of The Woodlands, Texas. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Russell and his wife Melissa of Katy, Texas; Michael and his wife Ann of College Station, Texas; and Bennett Ray of The Woodlands, Texas. He also cherished his great-grandchildren: Evan Goehring and Clara Sperry both of College Station, Texas; Jackson, Cole, Wyatt, and Kate Sperry, all of Katy, Texas. Billy is also survived by his dear friends and fellow police officers, Jerry Compton and Larry Bledsoe as well as many members of the Midland Police Department retirement community. Additionally, he is survived by his Loraine High School classmate and lifelong friend, Dale Nash.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gerry, as well as his parents. His siblings, Nettie Mae Crownover, Hazel Ruth Blair, Thomas Bennett Ray Jr., and Jimmie D. Ray also left this world before him. Additionally, he is preceded in death by his dear friends and fellow officers: Sidney Corley, Earl Luckey, and Ron Aaron.

Billy Don Ray will be remembered not only for his unwavering integrity and loyalty but also for the indelible mark he left on those who knew and loved him. His memorial service will be held on February 9, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Aggie Field of Honor and College Station Memorial Cemetery in College Station, Texas.