Funeral service for Altie “Marshall” Ray, age 86 of Sulphur Springs, will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Murray Orwosky Funeral Chapel with Doyle Hayes officiating. Interment will follow at Emblem Cemetery with Jack Schwen, Jerry Schwen, Jeff Schwen, James Schwen, Jacob Schwen, Robert Schwen and Joshua Schwen serving as pallbearers. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Altie “Marshall” Ray of Sulphur Springs, TX, passed away October 5, 2023 in Greenville, TX.
Marshall, aka Pops and Grandpa, was born on March 1, 1937, the oldest of 8 children born to Altie Ray and Iva Geneva Gresham in Lawrenceburg ,TN. While driving a taxicab in Toledo, OH, he met his future wife and love of his life, Gloria Ann Miller. They were married Feb. 3, 1971. His family said, “Gloria was the best thing that ever happened to Marshall.” He became a better man because of Gloria. They moved to Texas in the early 1980’s to be near Gloria’s children and grandchildren. Even though they were Gloria’s family, he loved them as his own. Marshall and Gloria moved “up the driveway” from Jack and Lois in 1996. They both helped with the grandchildren and were a great support to the family. Marshall became the “guardian of the gate” and was always on duty, which was a blessing to the family. He was always willing to give advice to the children and grandchildren when they came to visit. Gloria became ill in 2005 and he cared for her until she passed away on Oct. 15, 2005. He loved her to his last breath. Marshall had many gifts and talents. He was very smart and knowledgeable on a wide range of subjects. He was gifted in music and enjoyed collecting and playing guitars. From computers to automobiles, he could work on almost anything. He loved to tinker. He was raised on a farm and helped the family with planting and caring for trees and flowers. He also had a soft heart for animals. Several years ago, the Dr told Marshall he didn’t know how he was still walking, considering his medical condition. He jokingly told the Dr.; “I’m a dumb hillbilly and don’t know when to quit.” He was stubborn and hardheaded but still a gentle soul.
Marshall is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Gloria; 2 brothers, Alfred Ray and Carey Ray; and 2 sisters, Adele Ray and Kathy Ray.
He is survived by 2 brothers, Dennis Ray and Kenny Ray; 1 sister, Gwen Ray; 3 stepsons, Jack Schwen and wife, Lois of Sulphur Springs, TX; Jerry Schwen, Jr. and wife, Belinda of Manvel, TX; Jeff Schwen and wife, Donna of Benton AR; and a special daughter-in-law, Vicki Hofert of Mineola, TX; 11 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Peerless Baptist Church in his memory.
Arrangements are under the direction of Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home.
The online register can be signed at www.murrayorwosky.com
