Raymond Gaw, affectionately known as Ray, age 60, of Texarkana, TX, passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2025.
Ray proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 27 years, retiring as a Captain. After his service, he continued to lead with purpose and integrity in his role as Site Director for DFAS.
Ray was known by all for his boundless kindness, unwavering selflessness, and quiet but powerful leadership. He was the kind of man who made everyone around him feel seen, supported, and safe. Whether it was helping his mother through college algebra, guiding his son Adam through icy roads during driving lessons, or sitting patiently with Zack during math homework, Ray always showed up for his family without hesitation. He taught Tyler how to play the violin, Christina how to ski, and Anna how to swim. He never turned down the chance for a new adventure. He loved deeply and gave freely.
He was incredibly funny—calling his kids “a bunch of brats” with a mischievous grin that let them know just how much he adored them. He could poke fun and still be the rock of the family—something only a man like Ray could pull off so effortlessly.
In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, skiing, traveling, and simply being with his loved ones. In recent years, he found deep happiness and companionship with his fiancée, Shannon Ross. Their love was unmistakable—steady, lighthearted, and full of mutual admiration. Shannon brought out the very best in Ray, and those who knew him could see just how deeply he cherished her. They were recently engaged, looking forward to a future full of laughter, love, and adventure together.
Ray was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Gaw; his bonus father, Howard Bartlett; brother-in-law, Brad McGill; and nephew, Jacob Davis.
He is survived by his beloved fiancée, Shannon Ross; his mother, Alice Bartlett; his daughter, Christina Finegan; his sons, Zack Finegan, Tyler Gaw, Adam Gaw, Justin Lockhart (Fritz), and Jack Lockhart; his grandchildren, Zakai Finegan, Tru Lutton, and Aiden Finegan; his sisters, Becky Gaw and Anna Gaw; his brother, Doug Cribelar (Augusta); and nephews, Alex Cribelar (Victoria) and Ryan Cribelar (Marissa).
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation, an organization that reflects the values Ray held dear.
He was a loving fiancée, father, son, grandfather, brother, and friend—an all-around very good man. His legacy of compassion, humor, and courage will live on in every life he touched
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Chapelwood Funeral Home- Nash, TX.
