He was born in Refugio, Tx to Jose Bustos Cantu and Nora Fierova Cantu. Growing up in Refugio he was an original member of his brother’s band, Vince Cantu and the Rockin Dominoes. At age 15 he composed and recorded two saxophone instrumentals , Blowout and Slow Glow. After graduating from Refugio High School in 1962 he joined the 298th Army Band, stationed in Berlin Germany. After his service he lived most of his life in Houston where he once again joined his brother playing with the Saints and Sinners band. He was a supervisor for many years for Carol Alred Distributing Co. He enjoyed cooking but fishing was his passion. He loved taking family and friend’s kids and teach them how to fish.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Nora Cantu, brothers Vince Cantu and Robert Cantu, He is survived by brothers, Fernando Cantu-Houston Lorenzo Cantu-Sue Clarkesville, Tennessee Louis Cantu-Juanita San Angelo Tx , and daughter Rita Rodriquez. Seventeen nieces and nephews and several grand nieces and nephews Among others, special people in his life were best friend Richard Smith and son Aubrey. Also Shawndee Albright-Taylor and Tracy Barton Hudack.
Pallbearers are: Roland Cantu, Andy Cantu, Rodney Knode, Jacob Knode, BJ. Cantu, Jonathan Cantu, Honorary Pallbearers are Michael Cantu, Josh Cantu and Bradon Wills.
A visitation for Ray will be held Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A committal service will occur Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. A reception will occur Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 1:45 PM to 3:45 PM, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AmericanHeritageFuneralHome.com for the Cantu family.
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