Ray Culton
Ray Culton, age 80, died in the early morning on Wednesday July 15th in St. Joseph’s hospital in Bryan, Texas. Ray Culton was born on June 5th, 1940 in Normangee, Texas. Ray is survived by his wife Pearl, of 47 years, and his son Kenneth Ray Culton as well as brothers Billy Culton, Tommy Culton, Ernesto Culton, and sister Peggy (Burnett) Culton.
Ray Culton was born in Normangee but made his way to Long Island, New York where he taught the intricacies of woodworking and lessons of discipline and accountability to a generation of mostly young men for over 30 years. In 1997 Ray and Pearl made their way back to Texas, first to Houston then on to Normangee and Hilltop Lakes where Pearl currently resides.
Ray returned to Texas in part because he was never quite satisfied with the suburban way of life. Always dedicated to the land, while living in Houston for several years Ray drove twice a week to Normangee to tend cattle, garden, and be where he was most comfortable.
Beyond being a builder and rancher those who knew Ray well found him to be someone who dealt with people fairly, while holding little reverence for false authority figures.
A time for friends and family to gather in memorial will be Monday, July 27th and 12:00noon-1:00PM at Cozart Funeral Home. Attendees are expected to look after their neighbors like real Texans and wear a mask.
I remember Ray well and how he looked after his mother, Miss Ruby. His mother was and always be "my hero." A fine, fine lady
Hi, I'm so sorry to hear about Rays passing. I was a student of his Wood Shop class at Connectquot High School. He was a very dignified and dedicated man, He taught me patience concerning my work which helps me to this day. A very stern man who would not
put up with any B.S. from any wiseguy student including me ! . As a young man growing up in almost all white High School, his example taught me color did not matter but rather how you treat your fellow man is everything !! To you Pearl , and family he will never be forgotten. I often told my children how he influenced my life and in turn taught them how to respect others. God Bless you and your family.
A very nice colleage to be around. Very fond memories of the teachers lunch room conversations.
Rest In Peace
ray was the tall, quiet man who made us all love and respect him. one to remember.
Mo and I loved Ray ? .Condolences to Pearl and his son. He was a great man.?
Blessed to have known Ray when i was student and years later, fellow teacher at Connetquot HS. I acted on sets designed and crafted by Ray. Got to observe his impeccable and inspired teaching when Ray tolerated me sharing his shop room for a year! We both survived and became friends. Thanks Ray! Love to your family.
Rest in peace Ray. You did it your way being both a scholar and tender of the land that you loved.You will be missed by family and friends.
RIP