Ray “Big Happy” Gonzales was born on March 23, 1962. He is preceded in death by his father, Paz Gonzales; his mother, Beatrice Chacon Gonzales; and his sisters, Ophelia Licon and Olean Gonzales.

He leaves behind his son, Joe Edward Ray Gonzales; with grandchildren, Je’lyn Jolie, Esai Boi, Nayeli Faith, Zane Christian, Avonii Ray; and great-granddaughter, Ivory Edith Gonzales; daughter, Jolean Gonzales; with grandchildren, Dazzlyn Lai’la Lujan and Davian Cayson Olivas; sisters, Olivia Rivera, Olga Ramos, Oralia and husband Joe Castelo, Orphalinda and husband Abel Leal; brother, Paz Gonzales II and wife Terri; and an abundance of nieces, nephews, loving family, and friends.

Speaking of Ray in the past tense doesn’t feel right, because it isn’t. Ray, like his name, was the definition of light. His smile was captivating, his laugh contagious, and his spirit infinite.

Ray loved Jehovah God. He loved life. Most importantly, he loved his children and family. His jokes, his laughter, and his hugs will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. We will see him in our dreams, hear him in our songs, and feel him in our hearts…forever wrapped in the love he so freely gave.

Visitation:

Friday, February 6, 2026, 12:00 to 7:00 PM

Martinez Funeral Home - West Chapel 10137 West University Blvd Odessa, Texas 79764

Celebration of Life: Friday, February 6, 2026, 7:00 to 9:00 PM

Martinez Funeral Home-West Chapel

Celebration of Life/Reception: Saturday, February 7, 2026, 1:00 PM

Martinez Funeral Home-West Chapel