Ray McCarty

Elson “Ray” McCarty, Clyde resident since 1963, also known as D-Dad, was born on June 7, 1936 to Albert McCarty and Cora Thomas McCarty in Rowden, Texas. He passed from this world on Friday February 4, 2022 at the family ranch in Baird while tending his cattle. Ray had hoped he would be there when his time came, and this blessing provides much comfort to his family.   He began school in Rowden and then graduated from Abilene High School in 1954. 

Ray met Gaye Burrow at Abilene High School and they married on March 17, 1956. Ray proudly served 8 years in the Naval Reserves.  Ray was a musician who loved to play mandolin and bass guitar.  More recently, Ray shared his music with the residents of Clyde Nursing home and the Clyde Pizza House. 

Ray worked for Safeway while in high school. After graduation, he worked for the City of Abilene as an engineering tech and retired as Supervisor of Engineering after 40 years. Ray always worked more than one job.  He was owner of Clyde Green House and worked at Westgate Nursery.  Ray’s passion was raising and selling calves from the family home in Clyde. 

Ray is survived by his wife of almost 66 years, Sharlotte Gaye McCarty.  They were parents to three children, Mike McCarty of Round Rock, Craig McCarty and wife Lisa of Abilene, Terri Childers and husband Mark of Potosi.  Ray was very proud of his grandchildren, Kristi Loewen and husband Willie, Aaron McCarty, Dr. Cody McCarty and wife Kaila, Kaci Childers, Camron McCarty, and Dr. Brandon McCarty.  Great grandchildren include McKinlee Loewen, Oaklee Loewen, Landry Loewen and Jackson Wade McCarty who will now share his Date of Birth with his great grandfather’s passing, February 4,, 2022.  Ray’s beloved cattle must also be listed as survivors.

There will be one less senior meal and one less well burnt Whataburger sold.  If we hear someone requesting a senior discount or a military discount, it won’t be Ray McCarty but we will smile remembering Ray fondly.

Ray will be cremated and there will be no services at this time.