Ray Washington McDonnell

Ray W. McDonnell, 92, died Sunday, February 14, 2010 at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church with burial to follow in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories Cemetery. Visitation will be at 1:00pm on Wednesday at the church prior to the service.

Ray was born on February 22, 1917 in Grayson County, Texas to Eddie Lee and Katie Pate McDonnell and later in life made his home in the Abilene area.

An avid supporter of the West Texas Rehab, he assisted with the building and even had a wing named after his son, Billy Mac. Ray, his twin brother Rayford, and the McDonnell family pioneered the nursing home industry in Texas during the 1950's.

He loved being outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. There is no doubt that he adored his family and especially his grandchildren. He was a member of Tye Baptist Church.

Preceding him in death were his wife; Bell McDonnell, his son; Billy McDonnell, six brothers; and two sisters.

Survivors include two sons; Jack Gotcher and wife Diana and Danny Gotcher and wife Karen, both of Fredericksburg, his sister; Dorthea McDonnell Spencer of Poolville, Texas; four grandchildren; Amy Everett, Kristi Kaiser, Misti Dusek, and Amber Gotcher, six great-grandchildren; his special niece and caregiver, Grace Wisdom; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

You may view and sign guestbook @ www.elliotthamilfuneralhome.com