Raymond Clarence Sweetman

It is with a mixture of sweet joy and sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Clarence Sweetman, 94, of Canton, Texas. Raymond went home to heaven peacefully, with his loving wife, Betty, by his side, on November 29, 2024.

Raymond was born on February 22, 1930, in Gordon, Texas, to Jessie Lee Sweetman and Addie Ruth Hall Sweetman. He grew up in Gordon and later moved to Dallas to complete his schooling at Crozier Tech High, graduating in 1948. It was in Dallas that fate brought him together with his one true love, Betty Cates. They married on February 10, 1951, and together built a beautiful family.

In 1985, Raymond and Betty moved to Canton when he retired from Sears after 37 years of service. Retirement, however, did not slow Raymond down. He built a home for his bride and started “Real Deal,” a thriving business well-known across Van Zandt and Kaufman counties. The couple also enjoyed traveling to many countries and taking cruises, cherishing every moment spent together.

Raymond had a deep love for dogs, who seemed to find him as much as he found them. Sweet Susie, his loyal companion, stayed by his side until her recent passing, and Lil Dog remained his faithful friend to the end.

Raymond was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Canton, where he actively participated in church life. He taught Sunday School for many years and was always ready to lend a helping hand.

He was a true and loyal friend, known for his kindness and willingness to help others. Raymond’s legacy of faith, dedication, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Although Raymond's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. As you continue to worship Jesus up there, dear Raymond, your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Raymond’s grandson, Jared Sweetman, for his loving care during Raymond’s final years. They are also deeply thankful to Myranda, Tiffani and the staff at Solaris of Kaufman, as well as the team at Canton Oaks for their compassionate care.

Raymond is preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Addie Sweetman; his brother, Roy Sweetman; and his son, Steve Sweetman.

He is survived and dearly missed by his beloved wife of 73 years, Betty Sweetman; daughter and son-in-law, Leisha and Greg Mattingly,and daughter-in-law Andrea Sweetman; grandchildren, Justin and Holly Sweetman, Jared Sweetman, Liz and Noah Ryan, Ashley and Johnny Bychkowski, and Mark Mattingly; great-grandchildren, William Sweetman, Nick Ryan, Peyton Ryan, and Olivia Bychkowski; and his sister, Audrey Bachman.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 9, 2024, at Eubank Funeral Home, with a visitation beginning one hour prior at 9:00 a.m. Bro. Mark Robinson and Bro. Dan Tarno will officiate.

A graveside service will follow at 3:30 p.m. at the Old Gordon Cemetery in Gordon, Texas.

Pallbearers: Greg Mattingly, Justin Sweetman, Jared Sweetman, Noah Ryan, Johnny Bychkowski, and Mark Mattingly. Honorary Pallbearer: Jon Darin Kvapil.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your favorite charity in Raymond’s name.

Raymond’s life was a testament to love, faith, and family. May he rest in eternal peace.