Raymond William Burbank

Raymond William Burbank, lovingly known as “Papa Ray” to his family, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, with his family by his side. He was 82 years old.

Ray was born on February 8, 1943, in Lynn, Massachusetts. In 1949, his family moved to Castine, Maine, where he began elementary school in a one-room schoolhouse — an experience he remembered fondly. In 1952, the family relocated to Amesbury, Massachusetts, where Ray graduated from Amesbury High School with the Class of 1961.

Shortly after graduation, Ray proudly joined the United States Army. Following boot camp and training, he was stationed in Germany, where he was placed in charge of American Youth Activities. He found great joy in organizing events and planning trips throughout Europe for dependent children on base. His leadership and dedication made a lasting impact on many families during his service.

Ray’s passion for mentorship began long before his military service. As a young man, he was deeply involved in Boy Scouts and attended the 50th Anniversary National Jamboree in Colorado Springs in 1960. His love for scouting continued throughout his life — he served as a scout leader while overseas and, more recently, worked with the American Legion to help sponsor a new Boy Scout troop.

In 1970, Ray married the love of his life, Linda Hall. They honeymooned in Florida and made it their home for the next 25 years. Together they built a beautiful life and raised two sons: Robert Vickery, born July 26, 1973, and Sean Kelly, born August 3, 1981. Ray worked as a contractor before being directly hired by Motorola, a position that eventually brought the family to Fort Worth, Texas, where he later retired.

Ray was a man of initiative and heart. He founded the Southlake Focus Group, which began as a small gathering at Corner Bakery in Southlake Town Square. The group “outgrew” the bakery and eventually moved to White’s Chapel Methodist Church, where it continues today — welcoming job seekers weekly and helping countless individuals find meaningful employment.

In 2015, Ray devoted his talents to supporting Linda in launching her business, Off The Deep End Aquatics. He handled the research and paperwork, created the logo and website, and designed marketing materials. He was not only her biggest supporter but also a valued and integral member of the team.

Ray had a curious and creative mind. He spent countless hours researching his family tree on Ancestry and developed a passion for heraldry, designing coats of arms and even creating new ones for families after marriage. His artistic eye and attention to detail were evident in everything he touched.

Above all, Ray cherished his family. He spent his life intentionally creating memories — through vacations, holidays, birthdays, and everyday moments. Summers were often spent fishing on Lake Waukewan in New Hampshire, followed by a large fish fry and his famous fish chowder before returning to Florida. He took great pride in cooking special birthday dinners for each family member, complete with cake and his favorite relighting candles — much to everyone’s playful frustration. No one was spared.

Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Hall.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Linda Burbank; his sons, Robert Vickery (Shannon) and Sean Kelly (Laura); his grandchildren, Robin (Adriana), Raymond, and Lena; his great-grandchildren, Alexandra and Jackson; his sister, Beverly Hover (Phil); his niece, Kimberly; and his mother-in-law, Edith Fortier. He leaves behind many extended family members, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Ray will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather — a man who valued family above all, served his country with honor, mentored generations of young people, and lived a life full of purpose, humor, and heart.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Eagles View Church, 5440 W. Bailey Boswell Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76179.