Ray Cortez

Ray Acosta Cortez, 86, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2024, in Abilene, Texas. A visitation will be held Monday, July 1st, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the Rosary beginning at 7:00 PM in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 Hwy 277 South. The Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, July 2nd, at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 837 Jeanette Street. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Winters, Texas.

Born on January 11, 1938, to Jake and Maria Cortez in Winters, Texas, Ray spent his early years in his hometown, where he attended local schools and formed lifelong friendships. In 1962, Ray moved to Abilene with his beloved wife, Florentina, and their eldest son, Danny. Abilene quickly became their home, where they built a life filled with love and joy. Ray dedicated 13 years of hard work to Gooch Packing Company before spending 25 fulfilling years with UPS.

Ray was known for his passion for dancing, always lighting up the dance floor with his impressive moves. He also loved traveling, exploring new places, and creating cherished memories with his family. A devout Catholic, Ray was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through both joyous and challenging times.

Above all, Ray was a devoted husband, a loving father, and an exceptional grandfather. His family was his pride and joy, and his legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through them.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Florentina Cortez; his son, Danny Cortez; his parents, Jake and Maria Cortez; and several siblings.

Ray is survived by his wife, Bonnie Cortez; his children, Joe Cortez of Abilene, John Cortez (Rita) of Yukon, Oklahoma, David Cortez (Melissa) of Rio Rancho, NM, Ana Watson (Christopher) of Grand Prairie, TX, Mark Cortez (Sandra Castillo) of Abilene, TX; his grandchildren, Matthew, Michael, Joseph, Cambria, Carter, Jeremiah, Jonah, Jason, Emily, Jacob, Brenna, Kayla, Jaclyn, Mia, JoRay, and Jema; his great-grandchildren, Addison, Christian, Alexandra, Kody, Evelyn, Xavier, Orijah, Dreylyn, Yazarae, Kurt, Jaedda, Jazlyn, Ayden, Kaden and Kamden; his brother, Herbert Cortez and wife Sandy; a bonus daughter, Cheryl Davis; and one bonus granddaughter, Rachel Ledbetter and husband Christopher; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers the family ask donations be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church building fund.