Ray

Williams

Ray Williams, 81, was born on March 1, 1945, to Johhny Farrell and Gladys Marie Williams in Middleberg, Oklahoma. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 6, 2026, at his home. He graduated from Dibble High School in 1963. He was a cowboy his whole life. He promoted his first rodeo in the 1970s, which was the beginning of the Annual Blanchard Rodeo. He promoted the Blanchard Rodeo for more than 30 years, and it grew to be one of the largest open rodeos in the State of Oklahoma. Ray spent most of his adult years roping and rodeoing. He loved being around horses, cattle, and good people, and that's where he was happiest. Ray proudly served his country in the Army shortly after high school and later taking over Williams Backhoe business from his father. He wasn't afraid of hard work, and there wasn't much he couldn't do. Most people would tell you he was one of the strongest men they ever knew. He was honest to a fault and always kept his word. If you asked for his opinion, you'd get it, whether you wanted to hear it or not. He believed in doing things the right way, and if you knew Ray, you know that usually meant his way. He could be stubborn, but he was also loyal, dependable, and someone you could always count on. Above all else, Ray loved his family. They meant everything to him, and he was proud of every one of them. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, hard work, laughter, and the kind of legacy that only a true cowboy can leave.

He was preceded in death by his parents Johhny Farrell and Gladys Marie Williams; brother Darrell Williams; sisters Glenda Whinery and Doris Odom; and grandson Logan James.

He is survived by his children Tim and wife Barb Williams of Noble, Dustin Williams of Norman, Gayle and husband John Vaughan of Blanchard, Tammy Williams of Blanchard, Tracy Williams of Blanchard; sister Brenda and husband Don Meier; grandchildren Nick and Brandi Nixon, Kristi Wiggins, Brett and Paige Williams, Taylor Brunken, Jarrod and Clarissa Brunken, E.J. James, and Beu James; six great grandchildren; longtime partner Deana Rowley; and many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, loved ones, and friends.

A viewing will be held from 11:00 - 8:00 P.M., Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Eisenhour Funeral Home in Blanchard. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Blanchard First Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Eisenhour Funeral Home. Online obituary and guestbook are available at www.eisenhourfh.com.