Staff Report
Dawley Ray Cleveland, known to everyone as Ray, passed away at his home in Austin, Texas, on October 14, 2025, at the age of 90. Ray was born on October 29, 1934, in Buda Texas.
A graduate of Buda High School’s class of 1952, Ray went on to become a master electrician through IBEW Local 520, where he remained a member for 65 years. The last 19 years of his career were spent as the Training Director for the Union Apprenticeship Program (JATC). He was a gifted teacher, and his electrical demonstrations left a lasting impression on his students. He also served on several boards and committees contributing his expertise to the community.
Ray was a man of many talents, and he also enjoyed several hobbies. A certified welder, he believed no project was complete without a spot of welding. He often said, “Anything worth building is worth over building, and there is no substitute for the right tool for the job.”
His lifelong love of motorcycles began at age 18, when he bought his first one, an Indian. Ray enjoyed competing in enduros and cross-country races and continued until age 50. He shared his love of motorcycles and racing with his family, and they spent many wonderful weekends camping at the racetrack and riding together. Ray, Dave and Andy raced for many years, and they won about 100 trophies each.
Ray was also an excellent snow skier, and he took up snowboarding (with poles) at age 62 because it was a little easier on his knees. He was always ready to head to the slopes if there was good snow, and he took his last snowboarding trip at the age of 85. He also liked spending time on the water—boating, fishing, and water skiing with his family and friends on Lake Travis and at the Texas coast. He enjoyed hunting and went on many trips to south Texas with friends.
Ray and Carlene attended several Baptist churches over the years, and they have been members at Manchaca Baptist church since 1988. He was always in his Seekers Bible class, and then in his pew for Sunday morning worship service. He volunteered many hours building things for the church and repairing items where needed.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Carlene Huckaby Cleveland. They met at First Baptist Church Buda, where they later married on June 24, 1955, in the old white rock church. Together, they built a legacy of faith, family, and fun.
Above all, Ray was a family man. He was very proud of his three children, and he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with them and their families, which he did right up until the end of his life.
Ray leaves behind his children Andy Ray Cleveland (Shellie), Mellanie Cleveland, and Dave Cleveland (Denise); grandchildren Adam Ray Cleveland (Michelle), Daniel Cleveland (Celeste), and Drew Cleveland (Darby); and great-grandchildren Henry Ray, Luna, Miriam, Leo, and Elias. He is also survived by his brother Donald “Buddy” Cleveland (Edith Ann), along with several nieces and nephews.
A gathering to celebrate Ray will be held on November 2, 2025, from 2-5 pm (come and go) at their home in south Austin - 7502 Wood Cliff, Austin, TX 78745.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Manchaca Baptist Church – Shoe Box Gifts.
