Raymond Lee Milligan

Raymond Lee Milligan, 91, of Beaumont, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. He was born on March 13, 1934, in Wynona, Oklahoma, to Marie Ford and Daniel Leon Milligan.

Above all else, Ray’s greatest passion and purpose in life was his relationship with Jesus Christ. His faith was the cornerstone of everything he did. He was instrumental in founding both Conroe Bible Church and Beaumont Bible Church, where he faithfully served, encouraged others, and shared the truth of God’s Word. For the last thirty-three years he was a faithful member of Westgate Baptist Church. Whether with his family, friends, coworkers, or strangers, Ray made it a point to impart Scripture and foundational principles rooted in God’s Word. His influence was steady, humble, and deeply spiritual—impacting countless lives.

Ray proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a degree in Geology. He pursued a wide-ranging and successful career over the years as a Dairy Queen owner, real estate broker, insurance executive, and chemical sales engineer. No matter the role, he was known for his integrity, discipline, and work ethic.

He shared seventy extraordinary years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary, building a life centered on love, faith, and family. He was a strong and steady provider, a man who led by quiet example, and a source of unwavering support for those around him.

Ray had many interests and lived life fully. He was a licensed pilot who found freedom in the skies and was the proud owner of a Harley-Davidson before it became popular. He was also an avid member of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), where he found great joy, fellowship, and fun with fellow enthusiasts. Some of his most treasured moments were spent camping with close friends and family, making memories around the campfire, telling stories, and enjoying God’s creation. His quick humor and warm smile were a constant at family gatherings and will be remembered always.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Milligan; his children, Diane Milligan and her husband, Mickey White, of Kirbyville; Jeff Milligan of Alvin; and Staci Ishee and her husband, John, of Beaumont.

He was a devoted grandfather to Tiffany Hoffpauir and her husband, Kenny; Joshua Smith and his wife, Katie; Jacob Smith and his wife, Ashley; Taylor Davis; Cameron Davis and his wife, Julia; Meredith Perry and her husband, Seth; Caraline Lytle and her husband, Noah; and Logan Ishee and his wife, Madeline. His granddog, Ruby Jo, also held a special place in his heart.

Ray, who was an only child, was also blessed with a growing legacy of great-grandchildren: Katheryn Merriwether, Jace Merriwether, Kaylee Smith, Caleb Smith, Luna Perry, Piper Perry, Amos Perry, Carsyn Lytle, Lily Lytle, Raylee Lytle, and two great-grandsons expected this summer. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved daughter, Karen Davis; and faithful family friend, Paul Savant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Women’s Resource Clinic, 3740 Laurel Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77707, or online.

A gathering of Mr. Milligan’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His funeral service will be 4:00 p.m., Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Broussard’s.