02/02/2026
Ray Kempel, age 80, of Moore, Oklahoma, completed his earthly mission on January 27, 2026. He was born on September 27, 1945. He grew up in Miami, OK, and was an active member of FFA where he met his sweetheart, Debbie Bailey. Ray and Debbie married on November 6th, 1965.
Ray’s life centered around God as he raised his family, served his country in the United States Air Force and celebrated his Quapaw Native American Heritage.
No matter the season of life, he was always busy, always a go-getter, and always looking for ways to help others. Ray gave himself freely – whether through his wisdom or simply showing up when someone needed him.
He had a gift for finding the coolest hole-in-the-wall stores and discovering the most unique treasures, often turning simple outings into memorable adventures. Ray never held back from calling you out when needed – not to criticize, but to make you think, grow and see things differently. He loved to joke, tease, and pick on those he cared about, always with a smile and a twinkle in his eye.
His relationship with his Savior was an essential part of his life, and he found great comfort and purpose in sharing the word of Christ with others. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the laughter he shared, the lessons he taught and the love he so freely gave. It may have started with just a handshake, but he was leaving a little Jesus everywhere he went.
He is survived by wife, Debbie Kempel; Brother, Charles Kempel; Sister, Charlotte Barnes; Son, Kenny Kempel; Daughters, Tabitha Whitten (Dustin), LaShauna Kempel, Lisa Milligan (Aaron); Grandchildren, Tiffany (Brayden), Taylor (John), Morgan (Lydia), Brenton (SenaKay), Laban, Harper and Grayson; Great-Grandchildren, Braylon, James, Ledger, Ginny, Kaiya, Kopelyn, Rosie; Bonus Son, Travis Smith; Bonus daughters: Alesia Davis, Tricia Gilligan, Amber Miears, Amber Loftus and Mandi Smith; Extended family and friends.
Ray’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, 10:00am, February 5, 2026 at Lawson’s Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St., Jay, OK 74346 with Pastor Tommy Merritt officiating. Followed by Ray’s funeral procession to Quapaw Nation Cemetery, Miami, OK.
Ray’s burial will be at Quapaw Nation Cemetery, Miami, OK with military honors by the Grove Veterans Ritual Team of Grove, OK.
Ray’s family will be having a Celebration of Life Memorial Service on Saturday, 10:00am, February 7, 2026 at Southern Hills Baptist Church, 8601 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73159.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent in to First Baptist Church, Shattuck Parents Day Out and the Boys Ranch Town through the Oklahoma Baptist Home for Children.
Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson’s Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 W. Gray St., Jay, OK 74346 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.