Raymond Harvey Armstrong

Born 14 March 1913, in Palestine, Texas, to Samuel Thomas Armstrong and Sarah Mildred Reed, Ray moved with his parents in 1921 to San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Brackenridge High School in 1931 and from St. Mary's University in 1935. From there, Ray joined the firm of Southern Engraving in Houston, Texas as Sales Manager.

Raymond married the late Martha Evelyn Hill of San Antonio, Texas, 14 Feb 1939.

With the outbreak of WWII, Ray was commissioned as a Lieutenant, senior grade, in the USNR and served as a gunnery officer in the Pacific Theater from November 1943 to January 1946.

Upon return to civilian life, he resumed his post with Southern Engraving. He returned to San Antonio with his family in the summer of 1951 to open a branch of the business known as Texas Invitation Company and subsequently, as Southern Pabst Engraving until its sale in 1975.

Not only a highly successful small businessman, he was also an avid cattleman. Possessed of a keen instinct for genetics and sharp eye for breed conformation, he developed a fine herd of registered Herefords. Ray's love of cattle and ranching led to his involvement as a Director then Director Emeritus of the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo.

After retirement from the business community, Ray continued ranching actively until 1998. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio Executives Club, the American Hereford Association and the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo.

He is preceded in death by his daughters, Anna Bernard Armstrong and Ella Reed Armstrong Brewer, both of San Antonio, and by his loving wife, Martha Evelyn Hill Armstrong, also of San Antonio.

He is survived by his daughter, Anna Catherine Armstrong, MD of Houston and his grandson, William Louis Brewer II of Dallas and by numerous nieces and nephews. Ray embodied the qualities of that 'greatest generation.' His drive and exemplary integrity in personal and professional life is but a part of the legacy of influence he leaves. Best of all, his determined faith in Our Lord earned him the affectionate title from his late wife of 'the steady main mast of our family's ship.' Peaceful voyage, Raymond H. Armstrong, to that haven of rest.

Pallbearers are Mr. Dale A. Van Arsdall, Donn Van Arsdall, Mr. William Louis Brewer II, Mr. Robert Chambers, Brig.Gen Ret. David Lee Hill, Mr. Richard M. Kleberg, III, Mr. Arthur Magers, Mr. John Mallory, Mr. Thomas Slick Moorman, Mr. Ted Ownby, and Mr. John Rutherford Shaw.