Ray Hearn, 83, Bridge City

Ray Hearn, 83, passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024, after a lengthy illness. A cherished resident of Bridge City, he was born on February 12, 1941 to Inez Duplissey Hearn and Leslie Hearn in Lecompte, Louisiana. Relocating to Bridge City as a child with his parents and two siblings, Janice Overman and Harold Hearn, both of Bridge City, Ray established deep roots in the community, where he spent over seven decades of his life. His upbringing fostered enduring friendships, many of which were formed during his school years at Bridge City. He was known for his drag racing prowess with his ’55, ’56, and ’57 black Chevys. In 62 years of marriage to Elaine Ellis Hearn, a respected real estate broker, Ray found not only a life partner but also a business collaborator. Together, they navigated the real estate market, acquiring and selling properties, including a significant plot on Cow Bayou. They also developed the old Stoneburner Farm on Jennie Lane off Turner. Ray’s two-acre garden on the Cow Bayou property that he worked with his sister Janice, not only provided abundant produce but also served as a source of generosity, as they shared their harvest with friends, neighbors, and even local authorities, especially their beloved mother, Inez, who delighted in preparing fresh greens.

Ray's professional journey led him through roles at B.F. Goodrich and Bayer before establishing his own business. His community involvement extended to leadership positions at the Golden Triangle Savings and Loan and chairing the Orange County Appraisal District. Though Ray did not pursue a college degree, his thirst for knowledge remained unquenchable. He supplemented his education with real estate courses and avidly consumed publications such as the Beaumont Enterprise, the Orange Leader, and the Wall Street Journal. Ray and Elaine were blessed with two children, Teresa George of Nashville and Daren (D. Ray) Hearn of Bridge City. Their family expanded further with their son-in-law John Paddison and daughter-in-law Brenda Hearn and the addition of four grandchildren, Jessica and David of Nashville, and Grace and Jake, who now live in London. Ray took immense pride in his grandkids’ academic achievements and professional pursuits, whether it was Jake pursuing a masters in real estate, Grace and David’s work at the financial headquarters of an equipment manufacturer or Jess’ job in country music. His sports teams were also governed by his grandkids – supporting Texas A&M football and watching Grace’s Premier League English soccer teams, although he remained unsure of the rules. An avid outdoorsman, Ray found joy in fishing trips with D. Ray at Toledo Bend and hunting excursions in Colorado and West Texas with family members and friends. For three decades, he attended ACM and CMA Awards shows in LA, Vegas, Dallas and Nashville. He also went to the Grammy’s in LA and Carnegie Hall to see Dolly Parton, the Super Bowl and the Daytona 500. He traveled to London with Teresa on a CMA trip – even taking a backpack and heading to Paris by himself before the days of cellphones and apps. He and Elaine enjoyed the serene beauty of British Columbia and Jackson Hole and the sun-soaked shores of Cabo and spent two decades going to Rosemary Beach with grandkids.

Throughout his life, Ray never failed to express his admiration for Elaine, recognizing her kindness, deep faith and unwavering support as pillars of their enduring marriage. His legacy is one of love, generosity, and a deep appreciation for family and community. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 17, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Keith Royal. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 17, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Hearn and Inez Hearn of Bridge City.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Hearn; his daughter, Teresa George and husband, John Paddison of Nashville; his son, Daren Hearn and wife, Brenda of Bridge City; his four grandchildren; his sister, Janice Overman; his brother, Harold Hearn both of Bridge City; and numerous other loving family members and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Daren Hearn, David Hearn, Neil Miller, Darrell Crane, Kevin Laughlin, Herman “Boo” Dupree, Dow Gene Anderson, and Scott Malagarie. Honorary pallbearers are John Paddison, Jake Paddison, Elbert Chamblee, Jerry Laughlin, and the Bridge City Masonic Lodge #1345.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to caregivers Angela (Anghilia) Kithler and Albina Leiva during his final days. Also, to friends and family who came by to see him, brought him food, and reached out or prayed for us.