Ramon "Ray" I. Rios

Ramon I. Rios, better known as Ray, entered into the loving arms of Our Lord on August 5, 2025 at the age of 74. He was born on November 15, 1950 in San Antonio, Texas to parents, Lina Islas and Tiburcio Rios. His life was a colorful one—rich with service, laughter, and the kind of love that left no room for doubt.

Ramon proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for 23 years, during which he took on many roles that reflected both his discipline and charisma. Ray achieved several decorations and medals such as the Rifle Expert Badge, Pistol Expert, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal with a Star, Navy Achievement Medal with a Star, Army Commendation Medal, and Meritorious Unit Citation. He was a drill instructor, a military police officer, and served as a escort guard for Marine One during President Ronald Reagan’s administration. One of his most memorable honors was serving as part of the escort team during the Apollo 13 recovery mission—an experience he never forgot.

Outside of his military career, Ray was a true collector at heart. He had a passion for guns, cars, and weekends spent browsing estate sales and auctions. Behind the lens of a camera, he found joy in photography—capturing the world through his eyes and perspective. Athletic and energetic, he not only participated in various sports, but also became an umpire for local softball games. Whether in uniform or on the field, Ramon carried himself with confidence and authority—yet always knew how to break the tension with a good dad joke or a line from The Three Stooges or The Little Rascals.

Ramon had a gift for making people laugh. A jokester with a magnetic personality, he could light up any room he walked into; charismatic, social, and always just a little flirty in the most charming way. He was also fiercely protective, especially of his three sons. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his sons. Later in life, he met Cynthia Flores in Washington D.C. while he served in the Arlington County Police Department in Arlington, Virginia. The couple’s relationship grew and got married on December 1, 2002. After much decision, the couple moved to San Antonio, Texas to be closer to family once again.

Ray will be reunited in heaven with his parents, Lina and Tiburcio Rios; siblings, Irene Morgan, Enrique Rios and Francisco Rios; and nieces, Patricia Torres and Regina Rios.

Ramon left behind memories full of laughter, strength, and unwavering devotion. His legacy will forever live in his loving wife, Cynthia Flores; sons, Doniphan R. Rios (Dawn), Robert W. Rios (Angie) and Ramon I. Rios Jr. Grandchildren, Zachary Rios, Chad Rios, Mary Rios-Pena; John Rios, Joseph Rios, James Rios, Jude Rios and Suzanne Rios; great-grandchildren, Brianna Garcia, Leon Pena, Ramon Pena; very beloved companion Chihuahua, Libby. Siblings, Linda Torres Barrientos, Alice Medina, Elvira Delgado, Elvira Ybarra (Juan Rangel), Lina Rueda-Cantu (Amador), Mary Ann Rutten, Rosemary Rios, Virgina Rios, Leticia Favela (John), and Gilbert Rios; 21 nieces, 18 nephews and numerous extended family and friends, and the values he instilled in those he loved most.

A visitation for Ray will be held Monday, August 18, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino Funeral Home. A vigil will occur Monday, August 18, 2025 at 6:30 PM. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 9:30 AM with the interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209.