Raymond Cecil Oxley

Raymond Cecil Oxley, 90, of Bakersfield, California, passed away peacefully at home on August 28, 2026. He was born January 18, 1936, in Lamar, Colorado, to Ray Cecil Otto Arthur Oxley and Elsie Alpha New Oxley. He graduated from Bakersfield High School and attended Bakersfield College and Fresno State College.

On March 29, 1958, Ray married Sandra Joyce "Joyce" Williams. They shared 68 years of marriage and raised four children: Sandra Raylene Shuff (Douglas), Nancy Rhae Ward (Chris), David Ray Oxley (Terry), and Bonnie Rae Oxley (J. McAfee). Ray is also survived by nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, his sister Beverly June Oxley Amaral (Edward), and niece Tori Sue Goodman (Roland).

A teacher and mentor at heart, Ray taught at Bakersfield, Highland, and North high schools. He also served as a Boy Scout leader and taught guitar at Parlier Music, Bakersfield Adult School, and Highland High School.

Music was a defining part of Ray's life. An exceptional lead guitarist, his career began in childhood and became part of Bakersfield's music community during the Bakersfield sound era. He performed with Keenage Capers, Cousin Eb and the Ozark Squirrel Shooters, Ray Oxley and the Country Gentlemen, and the Ray Oxley Orchestra. His career also included a weekly television program for the Pentecostal Holiness Church, and later performances with Vintage Jazz.

Ray loved camping, hiking, backpacking, gardening, California's Central Coast, family gatherings, and singing around the campfire. Christmas was his big holiday and was always celebrated at Ray and Joyce's home, bringing generations together.

Above all, Ray loved Jesus Christ and his family. He leaves a legacy of faith, teaching, music, hard work, humor, hospitality, and treasured memories.

Funeral services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial on September 12, 2026.