RA “Ray” Cantrell passed peacefully on June 9, 2026, in his home in Fillmore, CA. He was born on December 12, 1926, in Wilson, OK to parents Joe and Cora (Taylor) Cantrell. Ray was a US Army Veteran who served during WW2 in Korea. Upon returning to Fillmore, he went to work in the oil fields. He married Jean Thomas and they were happily married for 57 years and she was the love of his life. Together they ran the Texaco/Shell Gas Station on C Street where he was a friend to everyone. During that time Ray and Jean met many people in Fillmore, many who became lifelong friends. After retiring, Ray and Jean maintained rental properties and getting the pool ready for family swim parties and BBQ’s. They would often take little trips to Laughlin, NV where they would compete to see who won the biggest jackpot. Ray never missed a Dodger game, and he particularly enjoyed going to the games with the family. Everyone in the family learned the words to Johnny Cash’s “Walk the Line” at an early age because he sang it often especially when Jean would walk into the room.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lorena Ballard, brothers Billy Joe, Almouth (Son), JB and Bobby Cantrell, children Janet Cantrell and George Thomas, son-in-law Jim Horn, great-grandchildren Taylar Gunter, Daniella and Gabriella Ayala.
Ray is survived by his wife, Jean Cantrell. Children Lori Horn, Barbara Mayfield (Steve), Janice Schieferle (Don), daughter-in-law Judi Thomas Dean, 12 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.
The family would like to Thank Assisted Home Hospice Ventura, all the nurses especially Nurse Penny and Caregiver Virginia including all the caretakers that helped. You are appreciated.
Viewing will be held at Perez Family Mortuary on Central Avenue from 5-7 pm on Wednesday June 17, 2026.
Military Graveside Services will be held Thursday, June 18th at 11:00 am at Bardsdale Cemetery and a Celebration of Life will be held on June 18th at 12:30 pm at Faith Community Church with a reception immediately following.