Obituary of Ray Edward Eaton

On August 2, 2023, at the age of 82, Ray Edward Eaton left this world to be with the Lord.

He was born on June 19, 1941, in Hearne, Texas, to Littleton and Ivory Eaton. The youngest of seven children, Ray grew up on the family ranch and enjoyed the full benefits of being the baby. He was sharply dressed and a social butterfly who enjoyed socializing and photography as a teen. In June 1960, at the age of 19, he left the family ranch to join the Airforce. This was an adventure that took him around the world, but it was while stationed in California that he met the girl that would become his wife.

He and Dorothy Payton were married on August 10, 1962, before she even graduated high school. In 1964 they welcomed their first child, Lonnie Ray, and then were stationed in France. He continued his Airforce service until June 1968, when he was honorably discharged and settled in California. In California, the couple settled in the Northern Valley and started their Californian life. Ray went on to work for UPS and during that time they welcomed their second child, Jennifer Lynn, in 1970. It was at UPS, where he worked for 33 years, that he was able to meet and impact his community of Yuba City and surrounding areas. With his friendly demeanor, sense of humor, and dimpled smile he made friends of every age, color, and kind. He was everyone’s favorite UPS man and would be greeted warmly everywhere he went. Throughout his life, he and his wife of 55 years were “home” for all their family. Gathering there for Ray’s infamous BBQ, holidays, or just a soft place to land, relatives and friends alike were always welcome. They were surrogate parents to nieces, nephews, friends of the family, friends of their children, and even foster children. Everyone was invited to share what they had and to enjoy Ray’s favorite pastime, fishing, alongside him.

In 2004 the family relocated to Mansfield, Texas, and continued to open their home and arms to both family and friends. Ray lovingly helped raise his children, nieces, nephews, and then grandchildren, making an impact on many lives that will not be forgotten.

Ray Eaton is preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, his parents, and all of his siblings. He leaves behind to mourn his son Lonnie, his daughter Jennifer, his grandchildren Lauren, Juliana, and Denise, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and adopted family.