Ray Junior Muniz

Ray Junior Muniz, born on July 24, 1976, in Georgetown, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2026, in Manhattan, Kansas. He was a man of many talents and diverse life experiences and even when times were hard, he always found a way.

Ray graduated from Round Rock High School, laying the foundation for a life marked by service and hard work. In 1995, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving with honor as a Cannon Crewmember in HHT 1st SQDN 16th CAV TC at Fort Knox, Kentucky. His commitment to his country during his three years of service earned him several distinctions, including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, M16 Rifle Marksman Qualification Badge, and Hand Grenade Marksman Qualification. He left the Army in 1998 with the rank of E1, carrying with him the discipline and pride that military service instilled.

Following his military career, Ray dedicated himself to various roles that showcased his versatility, including positions in customer service, security, and car sales. These endeavors spoke to his adaptability and work ethic, traits that those who knew him admired.

For the past two decades, Junior faced deep challenges with mental health and addiction. Yet, those who truly knew him, always saw his genuine spirit. While time did not allow for every relationship to be fully restored, he remained deeply loved by everyone, even when that love had to be shared from afar.

Beyond his professional life, Ray found joy and expression in many interests. He loved singing karaoke, a pastime that allowed him to share his vibrant spirit and connect with others. Time spent with family was sacred to him, reflecting the central place they held in his heart. Ray was an avid reader and writer, with a keen interest in music lyrics, movies and storytelling. His enthusiasm extended into the modern age with creating TikTok videos and enjoying walks around town. You could always find him at the local park in town. Among his aspirations was to author a book recounting the chapters of his own life, a testament to his reflective nature and the richness of his experiences.

Ray is lovingly remembered by his surviving family members: his parents, Barbara Muniz-Withrow and Reyes Muniz; his grandmother, Gloria Allman; his children, Laten Muniz, Andrea Muniz, Jaxon Muniz, and Macy Sortor; and his grandchildren, Aiden and Abel Muniz, MaKenzie McMullen, Anayah and Avery Cantu, and Elliot Landrie. He also leaves behind his siblings Natasha Muniz, Michael Muniz, Richard Muniz, Johnathan Muniz, Amber Hayes-Trolinger, Kimberly Hayes, and Adam Allman. These individuals carry forward the legacy of his love, laughter, and strength.

He was preceded in death by his biological father, Gary Allman; his sister, Jessica Hayes; his niece, Isabella Muniz; his grandparents Mickey Withrow, Don Withrow, and Idale Ray; his aunt, Joyce Hamby; and cousins Bryan Hamby, Christina Hamby, and Shawn Hamby. Their memory remains a cherished part of Ray’s story.

Ray Junior Muniz’s life was a mosaic of dedication—to his country, his work, and above all, his family. Though his passing was sudden and unexpected, the imprint he leaves upon all who knew him is enduring. May his memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Be Able Community to help support marginalized individuals facing homelessness, instability and life transitions, located at 431 S. 5th Street, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young's Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple, TX