Ray Barraclough, 76, was born in Pine Bluff at Davis Hospital on September 14, 1948. He was the son of Herman and Donna Barraclough.
He attended Dollarway High School and the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Education. He was a proud member of Phi Lambda Chi Fraternity.
Ray served in the United States Army and held many roles while in the military. He loved training future war fighters and teaching them in all way of military operations. He retired in 2008 and held the rank of First Sergeant.
He found his calling as a teacher, but more so as a coach. He worked at numerous schools all around Arkansas, including serving as an assistant coach under Head Coach Sammy Harper at Rison High School during the 1970’s and at Woodlawn High School under Head Coach Marion Glover in the 2000’s to the early 201o’s. He also coached aat Sheridan, Dermott, Gurdon and Pine Bluff. He enjoyed coaching, mentoring, and he loved fishing.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Dana Gayle Burrough Barraclough; and his parents.
Survivors include his daughter Stacy Barraclough-Davis (Jason); his son Ryan Barraclough (Gina); his grandchildren Nathan Davis (Catherine), Caitlin Davis-Roland (Aaron), Melody Barraclough, Rayden Barraclough, and Haizley Barraclough; his brother Randy Barraclough and his family; and several nieces and nephews. He had the opportunity to meet his great grandchild Maeve Roland and many bonus great-grandchildren.
In some of dad’s last words “If there is something you want to do, do it, and keep on truckin!”
His Celebration of Life was held Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Gross Funeral Home in Hot Springs.
Guests may register at www.GrossFuneralHome.com