Ray was born in Swift, Texas to Father Robert Ritchey, and Mother Ellie on March 23rd, 1931. He grew up in the surrounding area was the youngest of 6 children. He graduated Nacogdoches High School in 1949 and earn a Bachelor of Arts from Stephen F. Austin in 1968. He met, Joyce Blacklock at Travis Avenue Baptist Church and proposed on the 2nd date. They were later happily married at the same church in 1968. Ray worked as a teacher in the Fort Worth School District, a foundryman, a Deputy Sheriff. In his retirement he also worked with the Citizens on Patrol volunteers. He was a ballroom dancer, sculptor, and all-around artist. Ray was a loving father, devoted husband, and brother. Ray is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Ellie Ritchey, his beloved wife Joyce Ann Ritchey, and siblings, Malcom, Francis, Watson, Owena, and EJ. He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Ritchey, Son-in-Law, William Dickler, two grand-daughters Ashley and Kristina, four great-grandchildren, Gavin, Ali, Derrick, and Tessa, nieces, Renell and Renee, nephews, James, Wayne, and Rodney and all extended family.