Alton "Ray" McCreary (94) passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024, in Dallas, with his family lovingly by his side. Ray was born on January 3, 1930, to the late Willie Washington "Wash" McCreary & Ruby Beatrice Wilson McCreary, in Wylie, Texas.
He graduated from Wylie High School in 1948. At the age of 21, Ray served his nation with honor and distinction as a soldier in the Korean War, upholding the values of the United States Army. His service was a testament to his courage and his unwavering sense of duty. In his professional endeavors, Ray dedicated many years of his career to Kraft Food Co. & Campbell Taggart, Inc. His steadfast work ethic, integrity and reliability will be fondly remembered by his colleagues.
As a man of faith who lived a life serving others, Ray joined the Royal Haven Baptist Church in 2001 and was a dedicated brother of the fraternal order of the James A. Smith Masonic Lodge No. 395, where his seven decades of service were recently celebrated.
His passion for the outdoors was best exemplified by his love of quail hunting with his bird dogs and best friends, an activity that brought him much happiness. He and his beautiful wife, Toni, shared an adventurous spirit and enjoyed wherever their travels took them.
Rays wit and storytelling brought laughter and delight to friends and family alike. He was a true teller of tales, with a rich tapestry of history that captured the hearts of those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity and a life richly lived. His memory will be kept alive by a devoted circle of nieces, nephews, and friends who are as dear as family. In his passing, we are reminded of Ray's gentle spirit, his devotion to his community, and his unwavering faith. May he be received into the arms of our merciful God, and may he rest in eternal peace.
Ray now reunites with those who have gone before him: his parents; his sisters, Helen Louise McCreary Ward, Mary Katherine McCreary Addington, Willie Jean McCreary Blundell, Ruby Ruth McCreary Biggerstaff; his twin brother, Alfred Fay McCreary; his beloved wife of 64 years, Antoinette Rathbone McCreary; and his faithful canine companions, Gypsy, Sugar, Honey, Candi, and Dolly.
We would like to invite those who knew and loved Ray to join in the celebration of his life at the following services:
Visitation: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM 03/13/2024 Aria Cremation Services & Funeral Home 1820 N. Belt Line Rd., Irving, TX 75061
Funeral: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM 03/14/2024 Aria Cremation Services & Funeral Home 1820 N. Belt Line Rd., Irving, TX 75061
Graveside: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM 03/14/2024 DFW National Cemetery 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75211 (A funeral precession will be going from the funeral home to the cemetery and everyone NEEDS to be lined up at the cemetery by 2:15pm.) Cemetery Lane #3 The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the staff of The Villages of Lake Highlands for their loving care & support of Uncle Ray over the last year. We will forever be grateful for the compassion & respect you showed him.
Please leave the family condolences and share memories on this website.
Arrangements under the direction of: Aria Cremation Service and Funeral Home 1820 N. Beltline Road Irving, Texas 75061 (972) 607-4400