Reflections of a Well Lived Life

Mr. Edward Ray McJunkin was born on October 12, 1947, in Corsicana, Texas, to the late parentage of Jewel and Cleola McJunkin. At a very young age, he moved to Dallas, Texas, where he received his early education. He later graduated from Lincoln High School in 1966, excelling in football and track.

Following high school, Ray answered the call of duty by enlisting in the United States Army. He served with valor on the front lines of the Vietnam War from July 1967 to May 1969. He returned home a decorated hero, awarded the Purple Heart for bravery and wounds sustained in combat, the Sharpshooter Medal recognizing his skill and precision, and numerous other commendations for his honorable service. His journey in uniform concluded in 1969 with an honorable discharge—marking the end of his military mission and the beginning of his lifelong role as a devoted family man.

After returning to civilian life, Ray continued his education at El Centro College, where he earned an associate's degree. Shortly thereafter, he met the love of his life, Linda Gail Smith. The two were united in holy matrimony on November 2, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, beginning a beautiful journey of companionship that spanned over five decades.
Ray's commitment to his community was evident in his career. He devoted twenty-eight years of service to the United States Postal Service, working faithfully from 1981 until his well-earned retirement in October 2009.

Preceding him in death were his parents, grandparents, three brothers—Leon Eakles, Charles Hendrix, and Jewel McJunkin—and one grandson, Demonte Gomez.

On Saturday, January 10, 2026, the heavens opened and the angels rejoiced as God called His faithful servant home. Having fought the good fight and finished his course, Ray was welcomed into eternal rest. As he entered the gates, he received the ultimate commendation for a life well lived: "Well done, good and faithful servant." He now rests in the presence of the Lord—his journey complete and his victory won.

Ray leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Linda Gail McJunkin; four daughters: Valencia (Demetrius) McDaniel, Dee McJunkin, Carmesia "Nikki" (Elliott) McJunkin-Connie, and Teal (Remarcus) Smith; two granddaughters: Kyah Smith (aka "Squirt Jr.") and Gia Thomas; four grandsons: Tavaris Gomez, Toney Potts, Devin Thomas, and R.J. Smith (aka "Big Daddy"); one brother-in-law: Leon (Debra) Smith; two sisters-in-law: Mable Smith and Ossie Smith; and a host of cousins, relatives, and friends.

Remembrance

You can shed tears that he is gone, or youcan smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back, or you can open
your eyes and see he has left. Your heart can be empty because
you can't see him, or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he's gone, or you can
cherish his memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back, or you can do what he'd want,
smile, open your eyes, love and go on.