Refugio "Ray" Champion Mata

A loving husband, father, son, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Refugio was born on February 8, 1935 to Consuelo Champion Rodriguez in Mercedes, Texas. He graduated from Donna High School in 1953 and continued his studies at the University of Houston. Refugio went on to serve in the United States Army, and shortly after, the National Guard. Following his military career, Refugio began working as a diesel mechanic on the docks of the Houston Ship channel, retiring as Vice-President of Strachan Shipping Co. in 1999. Then, for a brief period, consulting with Chilean Shipping Lines.

Refugio met Maria Teresa in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico in 1970 and married June 19th of the following year. Together they had three sons in which they proudly and tirelessly worked to instill values of faith, family and work.

Refugio was an avid bowler, golfer, hunter, life-long Astros fan and was well known for his sense of humor and firm advice. He was a most respected man and an inspirational figure within the Sagemont/Southbelt community and the greater Houston area. He was also recognized as an honored member of the Guadalupana Association. Ray and Maria, were an integral part of bringing the Spanish-speaking Masses and services to the community of St. Luke’s the Evangelist Catholic church.

He is survived by his wife Maria Teresa and their sons, Javier (daughter-in-law, Irma), Omar, and Ivan; grandchildren, Bianca Marie, Anthony Ray, Annelli Lana, Julian Champion Ray, Cynthia Consuelo, Sydney Elle, Laura Denise, Madison Grace, Ty William, Ava Sophia, and Layla Janet; Great-grandchildren, Vincent Anthony, Omar Francisco, Kal-El Luther, and Luna Mae, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Refugio was predeceased by his mother, Consuelo Champion Rodriguez and sisters, Connie Sue Adame and Guadalupe Alden.

“Mi Rey”, Dad, you are painfully missed. May you finally rest in peace, for your journey has been a long but amazing one.

Instead of goodbye, until we meet again.

Services will be a viewing on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 from 5pm to 8pm at Forest Park East Funeral Home (21620 Gulf Frwy, Webster, Tx 77598), including a vigil service at 6:30 pm and rosary at 7pm. Wednesday, June 21, 2023, mass will be held at St. Luke’s the Evangelist Catholic Church (11011 Hall Rd., Houston, Tx 77089) at 11am, followed by burial at 1:30 pm at Forest Park East Funeral Home and Cemetery. Reception will be held at St. Luke’s the Evangelist Social Hall at 3pm.