Ray Montalbo Trinidad, age 93, of Arlington, Texas, passed away on March 22, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. He was born on October 31, 1932, and lived a long, full life marked by dedication to family, hard work, and an enduring curiosity about the world around him.

Ray proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the United States Army from 1953 to 1955. During his time in basic training, he was selected for advanced Non-Commissioned Officer Leadership Training—an honor reserved for soldiers who demonstrate exceptional discipline, capability, and leadership potential. As a Non-Commissioned Officer, he was quickly promoted to Corporal and trusted to lead, train and mentor his platoon, while enforcing the standards, discipline and procedures of the U.S. Army.

Though he began life with humble beginnings and did not complete high school, his determination and incredible intellect carried him far. English was his second language, yet he went on to earn an Associate of Science Degree from Decatur Baptist College and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Texas Christian University—a testament to his remarkable drive and sharp mind.

Ray built a distinguished career as a food scientist with Frito-Lay, where he held at least one U.S. Patent. He was also accredited for creating the recipe and process by which Funyuns Flavored Onion Rings were cut. His work on Funyuns reflected both his creativity and technical skill, as he developed what would become an iconic and unique part of American culture, enjoyed by millions. He remained humble about this accomplishment, which stood as a testament to his character and legacy. He later became a longtime realtor, continuing his lifelong habit of staying busy and productive, while approaching his work with energy and ingenuity.

At home, Ray was rarely idle. He could fix nearly anything under the hood of a car and in the home. He never met a problem he wouldn’t tackle—both simple and complex. He was a lifelong learner and loved reading anything he could get his hands on. He always had a towering stack of crossword puzzles and Sudoku books near his chair—and was so sharp-minded that he eventually began creating his own Sudoku puzzles for the challenge. His intelligence was unmistakable, matched only by his strength and resilience.

He shared a deep bond with his nine siblings, forged through a childhood of humble beginnings and strengthened by a lifetime of love and loyalty. Together, they created countless cherished memories, especially through music. One of Ray’s many interests and talents was playing guitar and singing alongside his brothers. Those musical moments brought warmth, laughter, and special memories to their close-knit family.

He was an avid sports fan who “bled purple” for the TCU Horned Frogs and passionately cheered for the Texas Rangers and of course, the Dallas Cowboys—never missing a chance to say, “How ‘bout them Cowboys!”. When he was in the car, he could often be found tuned in to sports talk radio, keeping up with the latest scores, commentary, and conversations about his favorite teams. His love for sports was more than just fandom; he approached the game with an analytical mind, appreciating the strategy, decisions, and nuances that others might miss. He enjoyed talking it through—breaking down plays, debating outcomes, and sharing those moments with others. His love for the Cowboys became something he passed down to his children, who hold warm memories of Sundays gathered around the television with him – those times remain among some of their fondest moments together as a family.

He found great enjoyment in attending his grandchildren’s games and school events, taking real pleasure in being present for those moments and watching them participate, grow, and experience their own activities and achievements. His grandchildren knew him affectionately as “Peepaw,” and he was proud of each of them, valuing their accomplishments and the lives they were building.

Ray will be remembered as a devoted father and grandfather, a loving brother and son, and a man who had a deep commitment to his family. He was known for his warm smile, a great sense of humor, and an occasional playful, mischievous streak that brought laughter to those around him. He was always willing to lend a hand, and always ready to work, especially for the people he loved.

He is survived by his children: Veronica (Trinidad) Scheibe and husband Murray Scheibe of Gordon, Texas; Valerie (Trinidad) Waite; Robert Ray Trinidad of Grand Prairie, Texas; Rachel (Trinidad) Knapp and husband Peter Knapp of Dalworthington Gardens, Texas; Steve Trinidad of Arlington, Texas; and Joy (Trinidad) Roberts and husband Brian Roberts of Howe, Texas. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Whitney Jo Ann Waite, Jackson Ray Waite and wife Madisyn (Gauntt) Waite, Michaela Rae Knapp, Bryce Gabriel Knapp, Jacob Grady Roberts, and Brett Ryan Roberts; and his great-grandchildren: Florence May Waite and Juniper Juliet Waite. He is further survived by his siblings Pete Trinidad, Della (Trinidad) Garrett, and Larry Trinidad, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Oralia (Salazar) Trinidad; his beloved grandson, Justin James Waite; his parents, Pete Trinidad Sr. and Victoria (Montalbo) Trinidad; and his siblings Marcy (Trinidad) Martinez, Lorenzo Trinidad, Benny Trinidad, Milo Trinidad, Rachel (Trinidad) Ray, and Eli Trinidad.

A celebration of life will be held on April 4, 2026, at 1:30 PM at Cockrell Hill Baptist Church, with a reception immediately following.

Ray will be laid to rest with military honors at the DFW National Cemetery in Grand Prairie, Texas, at a date to be determined, and all who wish to attend are warmly invited

Ray’s life was one of perseverance, strength, and love. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished by all who knew him.

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