Wichita County honors Ray Gonzales by naming US 82 Overpass in his memory

In a heartfelt ceremony at the Wichita County Commissioners Court, community leaders gathered to honor the life and legacy of Ray Armendariz Gonzalez, a distinguished veteran and public servant. The meeting, held on May 6, 2025, was marked by a proclamation recognizing Gonzalez's extensive contributions to Wichita Falls and the surrounding area.

Born on May 29, 1945, in Wichita Falls, Gonzalez served his country honorably in the Vietnam War, where he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart, among other honors. After returning home, he dedicated himself to his family's business, Ray's Foreign Car Service, which thrived for over 59 years. His commitment to public service was evident as he became the first Hispanic mayor pro tem of Wichita Falls and later the first Hispanic Wichita County Commissioner in 2009, a role he held until 2016.

The court's proclamation highlighted Gonzalez's numerous civic contributions, including his involvement with organizations such as the Mexican American Veterans Association and the Wichita Falls Teachers Federal Credit Union. His dedication earned him accolades like the Veteran of the Year from the Mexican American Veterans Association and the Wichita County Hispanic Man of the Year.

In a touching moment, Renee Gonzalez, Ray's daughter, spoke on behalf of the family, expressing gratitude for the honor of renaming the US 82 Overpass as the Ray Gonzales Junior Memorial Overpass. She emphasized that this dedication symbolizes her father's values of faith, perseverance, and community service. "This dedication is more than a name on a sign," she said, reflecting on the deep personal significance of the honor.

Commissioners shared their fond memories of Gonzalez, recalling his infectious laughter and passion for service. One commissioner reminisced about their time together on the court, highlighting Gonzalez's love for storytelling and his unwavering commitment to his community.

As Wichita Falls celebrates its designation as a Purple Heart City, the renaming of the overpass serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to service, both in the military and in his community. The ceremony not only honored Gonzalez's legacy but also reinforced the values he stood for, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.