Raymond Richard Westbrook, Sr. lost his fight with Alzheimer's disease surrounded by his loving family on December 29, 2018. Raymond was born July 19, 1934, in Doddridge, AR. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Barbara Westbrook, and his children, Raymond Richard Westbrook, Jr. and his wife Mary Michele, Dorothea Krempein and her husband Gary, and Becky Clark and her husband Brian. He is also survived and adored by three granddaughters, Margie Krempein, Ava Clark, and Bridget Westbrook. Additionally, he is survived by two sisters, Wanda Robinson and Ernestine Johnson. He is predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Margie Westbrook, and one sister, Aline Massey.
Raymond served 9 years in the National Guard and worked 47 years in the oil and gas industry, beginning his career in an entry-level position mowing plant yard lawns at Sunray Mid-Continent Oil Company. He advanced through the ranks to area superintendent of gas gathering operations for Mitchell Energy, where he remained until retirement at age 65.
He leaves a legacy as a generous family man, loving husband, and doting father and grandfather, who always put others before himself. Those who were fortunate enough to know him became family to him. He enjoyed a love of music, especially playing his guitar and writing poems which he put to music for those he loved. He additionally enjoyed crafts, outdoor activities, travel, telling stories of his childhood, and making people laugh with his great sense of humor.
Three paragraphs cannot summarize the impact of Raymond's 84 years. His loss will forever be felt.
Visitation will be from 12:00pm to 1:45pm on December 31, 2018, at Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 2343 Lake Road and Highway 78, Lavon, Texas, 75166.
Graveside services will immediately follow at the adjacent Lakeview Cemetery (same address).
If you wish to make a donation in Raymond's honor, please do so to Alzheimer's Association at alz.org.
Services entrusted to Charles W. Smith & Sons Funeral Home Lavon Chapel.