Ray "Pa" Crenshaw

January 25, 1945 – July 5, 2026

Alford "Ray" Crenshaw, 81, of Midland, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026, in Midland. He was born on January 25, 1945, in Coleman, Texas.

Ray lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and a quick wit that brought smiles to everyone around him.

Ray left school after the seventh grade after his father told him that without an education he would be digging ditches for the rest of his life. Turns out he was right, Ray did indeed dig ditches—but with trenchers and backhoes. He turned that hard work into a successful career, owning and operating Concho Trenching beginning in 1983. For many years, he worked with AT&T, helping build the infrastructure that connected communities by trenching and burying cable.

Ray met the love of his life, Sandra "Sandy" Crenshaw, in 1977. Ray's connection to Sandy began through family, as his sister worked at Sandy's bar. They were married on July 10, 1978, at the courthouse in San Angelo, Texas, beginning a marriage filled with love, laughter, and family.

Family was always at the center of Ray's life. He looked forward to annual vacations to the lake, Ruidoso, and the Gulf Coast, where countless memories were made. Christmas was one of the liveliest times, and with such a large family, it often took as many as six different Christmas celebrations each year so everyone could gather together.

Ray often joked that his beloved pets were his grandchildren. They brought him endless joy, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

In 1979, Ray discovered a love for bowling, a hobby that introduced him to many lifelong friends. Together they traveled to bowling tournaments, spent weekends at the lake, enjoyed rides on the pontoon boat, and shared countless laughs. Tuesday nights were reserved for poker with his close circle of friends, a tradition he cherished.

Ray will also be remembered for the sayings that became legendary among his family and friends. Whether reminding someone that "God don't like ugly," dismissing something with a hearty "Bullfeathers!", or shaking his fist and asking if they wanted a "knuckle sandwich" whenever someone said they were hungry, he had a way of making everyone laugh.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Crenshaw of Midland; his sons, John Crenshaw and wife Amy of Jersey Village, Texas, Kevin Crenshaw and wife Sharie of San Antonio, Texas, and Jason Crenshaw of Midland; 20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughters, Markie Kelley and Kristie Evans; his son, Curtis Green; and his grandson, Derek Holden. Ray was one of six children and was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Ray leaves behind a legacy of hard work, unwavering love for his family, enduring friendships, and a sense of humor that will continue to be shared in stories for generations. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Ray on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel at 3pm.