Elzie Ray Raymond, 67, of Center, Texas, passed away on November 24, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on February 28, 1956, in Center, Texas, to the late Boyce Ray Raymond and Betty Lou (Parker) Raymond. Funeral services will be held at 2PM on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home with Pastor Keith Woolf officiating. Interment will follow at Liberty Hill Cemetery, San Augustine.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 27, 2023, from 5-7PM at Mangum Funeral Home.

Elzie was born and raised in Shelby County. He graduated from Center High School. He met the love of his life, Margaret Yarbrough, through his sister. The two were married on September 3, 1974, and have spent over 49 years together. They have raised 5 children together. Some of the greatest moments for Elzie have been fishing, hunting, and camping. He loved spending time outdoors. Elzie enjoyed running trot lines as well. His kind, compassionate heart led others to him. “Country Boy” as most knew him was one of a kind, never met a stranger. His laughter and jokes made others smile. He was the best husband, dad, and papaw in the world. Elzie was a truck driver for most of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Raymond Children, Elzie Ray Raymond Jr. and wife Jessica Amy Raymond Donald Raymond and wife Katherine Coby Hughes Bonus Sons, Chris Gaddy Shane Steitler Sister, Glenda Smith Grandchildren, Dustin Raymond Kayla Donahoe Jasmin McWorter Morgan Allen Jordan Allen Nicholas Allen Brayden Raymond Collin Cooper Marissa Cooper and wife Jaelyn Mahalia Raymond Great-Grandchildren Aidan Davis Jaylen Lloyd Emmitt Allen Kason Hogg Mason Alvarez Grayson Cooper Special Niece, Mary Kay Williams

Pallbearers serving will be Tyler Davis, Randall Davis, Shane Steitler, Kevin Link, Stevie Wilson, Jerry Wayne Welch, Lee Craig, Jessie “Boogie” Anderson, Rick Chaddick, Chris Gaddy.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Raymond, James Raymond, Donnie Adams, and Michael Adams.

Elzie is preceded in death by his son, Christopher Lynn Raymond; parents, Boyce Ray and Betty Lou Raymond; brother, Donald Raymond; and sisters, Cathie Raymond and Bobbie Gene Golden.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net . Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.