February 22, 1964 – June 9, 2026
Tony Ray McWilliams was born on February 22, 1964, in Brownfield, Texas, to the late Ray and Betty (Brown) McWilliams (later Thackrey). He passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026.
Tony grew up in West Texas and graduated from Levelland High School in 1982. He went on to attend Texas Tech University, earning a Bachelor of General Business degree in 1987.
Following college, Tony built a career marked by loyalty and dependability. He worked for many years at HealthSmart, where he served faithfully and diligently.
Tony was a faithful member of Sunset Church of Christ.
Those who knew Tony would describe him as a man of few words, and there was a comfort in his steady presence. Tony appreciated routines and the simple rhythms of everyday life.
He enjoyed music, watching television, especially “Jeopardy,” “Hogan’s Heroes,” “M*A*S*H,” and sports, and was a devoted fan of Texas Tech and the Dallas Cowboys.
Though he was quiet, there was one thing that everyone remembers—his laugh. When something struck him as funny, Tony laughed with his whole body. Those moments revealed the warmth and joy that lived beneath his reserved nature.
Tony is survived by his brother, Toby (Anna) McWilliams; nephews Zachary and Joshua McWilliams; stepfather Al Thackrey; stepsisters Mary and Cathy Thackrey; uncle Odell (Linda) McWilliams; cousin Tracy (Cara Lynn) McWilliams; cousin Mylinda (Tyler) Wood; cousin Timothy (Chelsea) McWilliams; and cousin Bobby (Donna) Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Betty McWilliams.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lake Ridge Chapel, 6025 82nd Street, Lubbock, Texas 79424.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, June 19, at 10:00 a.m. at Lake Ridge Chapel. A graveside service will immediately follow at the City of Lubbock Cemetery, 2011 East 31st Street, Lubbock, Texas 79404.
As we celebrate the life of Tony Ray McWilliams, we remember a man whose peace was found in Jesus Christ, whose character was marked by integrity, and whose love was expressed through quiet service and devotion.
Though we miss his presence, memories of Tony’s gentle spirit, dependable nature, and joyful laughter will remain in the hearts of those blessed to have known him.
