Ray was born in San Antonio, Texas, to Salvador Raigosa and Delfina Rodriguez Martinez. He married the love of his life, Mary Esther Sotelo, in June 1976 in New Braunfels, Texas. Together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage and would have celebrated their golden anniversary in June 2026.
Ray was educated in Austin, attending Palm School, University Junior High, and Martin Junior High School. He graduated from Austin High School in 1972 and later attended St. Edward’s University. His working career began part-time at Spanish Village, followed by employment with the Austin Police Department as a Police Aide and later at La Fiesta Restaurant. Ray spent 30 dedicated years with the United States Postal Service before retiring. Throughout his life, he formed lifelong friendships from childhood, school, and the workplace.
Known for his sense of humor, Ray was always cracking jokes and bringing laughter wherever he went. He was affectionately known in his neighborhood as “the man with the pretty yard,” taking great pride in his lawn and often sharing photos of it with friends. He loved barbecue and proudly claimed—often with a smile—that he made the best BBQ around.
Ray’s greatest joy was his twin grandchildren, Peyton Alexander and Presley Grace Peña. He rarely missed their soccer games and most recently Peyton’s flag football games. No matter how he felt, Ray always wanted to be there, cheering them on and insisting they were the best players on the field—an inside joke shared lovingly with his wife.
A devoted Texas Longhorn fan, Ray and Mary rarely missed a home game or the annual OU rivalry. Win or lose, his loyalty never wavered. He also loved taking his grandchildren to the fair, traveling, being surrounded by friends, and enjoying life to the fullest.
Ray was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Austin, where he completed all his sacraments and faithfully served the church with pride and dedication. He generously supported the Salvation Army, Red Cross, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and the Food Bank, often saying, “It’s someone today; tomorrow it could be us.”
In his free time, Ray enjoyed woodworking in the garage and listening to music—especially hits from the 1970s. He loved turning the volume up full blast, “jamming” like he was at a club, occasionally trying to sing along and “bust a move,” much to his wife’s amusement.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Salvador Raigosa and Delfina Rodriguez Martinez, and numerous aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Esther Raigosa; daughter Katrina Marie Peña (Albert); grandchildren Peyton Alexander and Presley Grace Peña; sister Christina R. Estrada (Richard); brother Lawrence Raigosa (Mary); cousin-sister Elva DeLeon (Joe); cousin-brother Nicanor “Nick” Barboza (Anna); numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends. Ray’s presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 20, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Holy Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Zoeller Funeral Home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in New Braunfels 10:00 AM, Wednesday, January 21, 2026, followed by graveside services at Hill Country Memorial Gardens, New Braunfels, Texas.
The family finds comfort in knowing Ray has found eternal peace in the presence of the Lord. His faith was his guiding light, and they trust in God’s promise of reunion. As they cherish his memory, they draw strength from the love he shared and the assurance that he now rests in God’s loving embrace.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Sarika Deshmukh and staff, Texas Oncology Center of Austin, and Beacon Hospice of Austin for their compassionate and dedicated care.
Honorary Pallbearers: Peyton and Presley Peña
Pallbearers: Albert “Bert” Peña III, Nathaniel “Nate” Martinez, Nicanor “Nick” Barboza, Sr., Richard Estrada, Sr., Mario Acosta, Sergio “Charlie” Oglesby, Daniel "Dan" Pena, Jr., Larry Gonzales and John Tovar.
