John Raymond Keene passed peacefully from this life on June 21, 2025 at the age of 63.

Ray was born on August 30, 1961, in Pecos, TX. He, along with his sisters Renea and Denise, were adopted and raised in Canyon Lake by their maternal grandparents.

He graduated from Smithson Valley High School in 1979. Afterward, he worked as a bus driver for Texas Canoe Trails, and as a river guide for Roy's Rentals on the Guadalupe, where he earned the nickname "River Rat Ray." His friendly nature and charm made a lasting impression, so much so, that customers often welcomed him into their camps for food and drinks after a day on the river.

Ray even tried his hand at bull riding for a brief stint, but soon after decided to follow in his Father's footsteps by joining the military. His Father, John, served in the Army, but the U.S. Navy was Ray's calling, and in 1982 he enlisted, where he served on the USS Tarawa. While on liberty in Australia, Ray learned of Kay through a mutual friend. They eventually met in person four years later in Waco, Texas, and after a long-distance courtship, were married on April 28, 1990, later welcoming their only child, Seth, on October 6, 1991.

He went on to work several other jobs, but found his calling as a truck driver, where his CB handle was of course "River Rat Ray". He drove across the country and locally until his retirement, but he never lost his love for water. During his free time, you could catch him swimming, boating, fishing, or canoeing with his family. Later in life he would sneak away to go fishing with his best friend and cousin, Hal "Corky" Pace Jr. Anybody that knew him, knew of his straight forwardness, and short temper, but they also knew of his boundless love for his friends, family, and dogs.

All who knew Ray loved him, and he loved everyone in return. His kindness was instinctive, offering help freely, and without hesitation or expectation. Ray was an incredibly devoted father, never missing any of his son's sporting events, and loving Seth and his eventual family unconditionally. He was a loving "Pa Pa Ray" to his grandson Bryson, who gave him so much joy in Ray's last few years. He was also a loving, thoughtful, and supportive husband, always ensuring Kay had everything she needed and more. Some of the most cherished memories come from the many little ones who adored Ray and carry countless stories of the kindness he showed them, and the impact he made on their life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his love and memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Raymond Bernard and Rosa Belle (Petty) Keene, and his biological parents, John Osborn and Adella May Keene, along with other close relatives and friends.

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Kay Keene of Canyon Lake; his son, Seth Keene and wife Jessica; and his cherished grandson, Bryson Keene, of Round Rock, TX. He is also survived by his sisters, Rose Renea Gallagher and husband Charles of Granbury, TX, and Denise Schroeder and husband Kevin of Canyon Lake, along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A Funeral Service will be held at 4:00 PM on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Doeppenschmidt Funeral Home in New Braunfels, with visitation beginning one hour prior, at 3:00 PM. Pastor Larry Gipson will officiate. The following day, a Graveside Service will take place at 12:30 PM on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Meier Settlement Cemetery, 150 Meier Settlement Road, Riesel, Texas. Pastor Jerry Arthur will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, St. Jude Children's Hospital, or Meier Settlement United Methodist Church.

Please sign the guestbook at www.doeppenschmidtfuneralhome.com