Ray I. Back, 82, of Amarillo, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025. He was born on November 17, 1942, in Middletown, Ohio, to Ray and Opal (Staton) Back. After graduating from Middletown High School, Ray proudly served one tour of duty in the U.S. Army.

While living in Dayton, Ohio, Ray met the love of his life, Millie Bielefeld. The two were married for 53 devoted years, building a life together grounded in laughter, mutual respect, and family. In 1979, they moved to Amarillo, where Ray worked in Data Processing for Mesa Petroleum and later at Corporate Systems until his retirement in 2005.

Ray will be remembered not only for his generosity and warm presence but also for his sharp wit and playful sense of humor. He had a way of lighting up a room with a perfectly timed quip or one of his classic one-liners. He loved to make people laugh and never missed a chance to sneak in a good-natured joke — often delivered with a sly grin and a twinkle in his eye. Whether at family gatherings, bowling league nights, or just in day-to-day life, Ray’s humor brought people together and left lasting memories.

A passionate league bowler and a skilled home cook, Ray found joy in the simple pleasures – especially when he was in the kitchen cooking for those he loved. Family pets quickly learned that Ray was their favorite; he was rarely without a treat in his pocket and a scratch behind the ears at the ready.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Elizabeth Back.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Millie; sons Tony Back and wife Sheila of Seattle, Washington, and Mike Back of Amarillo; and his brothers, Jon Back of Granbury, Texas, and James Back of Sebastian, Florida.

His laughter, kindness, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.