“Killeen Mourns the Loss of Rinaldo ‘Ray’ Castillo Jr., A Devoted Family Man and Everyday Hero”
KILLEEN, TX – A wave of sorrow has swept through the Killeen community following the tragic passing of Rinaldo “Ray” Castillo Jr., a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who died on May 2, 2025, at the age of 38.
Born on February 28, 1987, in The Bronx, New York, Ray brought joy, warmth, and laughter into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind not just cherished memories, but a legacy built on kindness, loyalty, and a tireless willingness to serve others.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our great friend Ray,” wrote friends and colleagues in a heartfelt tribute. “He has been a huge part of our lives, both at the shop and away. Ray was the type of guy who always wanted to help.”
Those who worked alongside him say Ray could always be counted on—whether the hour was early or late, the job big or small. He would show up without complaint, without hesitation, and without expecting anything in return.
“He never said no to helping,” said one coworker. “We can’t count the number of times he dropped what he was doing to support someone else. Any success we’ve had, we owe in part to Ray. He truly was the light in our lives.”
Ray’s impact extended far beyond the walls of the workplace. As a devoted husband and father, he poured his energy into his family. As a friend, he was a pillar of strength, compassion, and loyalty. As a member of the Killeen community, he was known as someone who would lend a hand to a stranger or lift the spirits of someone in need—often with just a smile or a well-timed joke.
“Ray didn’t just help people—he inspired them,” said a longtime friend. “His presence brought peace and motivation. He was someone you could always count on.”
In this time of grief, Ray’s loved ones have established a donation link to help support his family as they navigate the difficult days ahead. Funds raised will assist with funeral expenses and provide comfort to his wife and children during this painful chapter.
“Ray gave so much of himself to others. Now it’s our turn to give back to his family,” said one friend. “He would have done the same for us without hesitation.”
As tributes flood social media and memorial plans are underway, the love and respect Ray earned throughout his life are evident in every post, message, and shared memory.
Ray’s passing is not just a loss for his family but for an entire community that knew him as a man of honor, humility, and heart. His spirit will continue to live on through the countless people he helped, the relationships he built, and the life he lived with generosity and grace.