Paul Ray Hamilton

Paul Ray Hamilton, known to all as Ray, born December 17, 1940, to Paul Hamilton and Florence Meibos Hamilton, passed away in January 2025, peacefully surrounded by family and love. His journey through life was one of unwavering dedication, quiet strength, and deep love for those who were blessed to know him.

Ray was many things to many people. To his beloved wife, Myrlene, he was a devoted partner who shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unwavering support. Together, they built a life filled with love and joy, raising their children Tina, Raelene, Shelly, Darrin, Audrey, and Rachelle. As a dad, Ray instilled values of hard work, kindness, and humility, leaving a legacy of love that will carry on through his 16 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Gramps." Cheyenne Indians believe that “Our first teacher is our own heart.” For many of us that encountered Ray along the path, his heart became our second teacher. He taught us love, discipline, joy, wisdom, and so much else.

Ray was a man of action and quiet wisdom. He was self-taught in countless skills—a miner by trade and a home remodeler, electrician, plumber, builder, and roofer by necessity and passion. There wasn't a problem he couldn't fix or a task he wouldn't tackle. His hands built homes, crafted solutions, and created a life of stability and comfort for his family.

He was a roadrunner at heart, always ready to explore the beauty of this world, especially the mountains that called to him. Family vacations and camping trips were among his favorite memories, where he found peace and joy in nature's embrace. While Ray was not an overly religious man, he knew God in his own way, and his church was off the beaten path in the mountains he loved so much.

Ray's life was one of kindness and care. He was a yard care perfectionist, taking pride in creating beauty and order in his surroundings. He cooked meals with love, shared stories with friends, and always took the time to help those in need. He said thank you often, cared deeply, and recommended a good nap on occasion.

Ray took great pride in creating family traditions, especially around the holidays. His home was a place of warmth and welcome, with room at the table for family, friends, and anyone in need of a meal or a kind word. His holiday recipes and traditions were crafted with love, and they will be followed and passed down for generations to come, ensuring that his spirit remains a part of every gathering.

An exceptional driver and a channel-flipping enthusiast, Ray lived life on his terms—finding joy in the small things and meaning in every moment. He was proud of his family and the life he built. He loved his wife fiercely and left no doubt about the depth of his devotion.

Ray's journey continues now, reunited with his father, mother, wife, sister, and dear friends who have gone before him. In the next life, he will be putting around on his Yamaha somewhere in this beautiful state, catching up with loved ones and taking his great-grandson, Cashy, on a long-awaited motorcycle ride.

To those he leaves behind, Ray offers a simple reminder: “I came. I saw. I loved. And I will see you all again—in due time.”

The family will hold a private intimate Celebration of Life to honor Ray.