May 18, 1947 -

March 27, 2024

Raymond "Ray" Leo Middleton, age 76, of Plains, Montana (formerly of Vallejo and Sacramento, California), passed away peacefully in his sleep after a short illness. He was born on May 18, 1947, in Vallejo, California, to the late Ronald W. and Alice A. (Cavanagh) Middleton. Ray was a beloved and awesome brother! He graduated from St. Vincent Ferrer High School in Vallejo, California, and he graduated from California State University, Sacramento with Bachelors and Master degrees, and he attended McGeorge School of Law, Sacramento.

Ray served in the U.S. Army as a Second Lieutenant with the Artillery Division. He also served in the Vietnam War and was a recipient of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters. He was a true patriot!

Ray began his career with the State of California Department of Justice in 1973. He joined the California Department of Criminal Justice in 1980. He was the Chief Correctional Case Records Business Manager II at San Quentin Prison, Associate Warden at various California prisons, and his last assignment was Warden at the

Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, California. He belonged to multiple professional and community organizations.

Ray volunteered as a Minister at St. James Catholic Church and other Catholic parishes where he lived. He had a penchant for the number 11. He was a blood donor for many years. He loved classical and jazz music. He hosted Super Bowl parties for 30 years. He shared "good times" with family and friends.

Ray is survived by brother, Robert J. Middleton, MD (Alice Ann), sisters Marian N. (Rush Kevin) Moore and Janet I. (Dave) Brandon, nephews Brian (Jade) Brandon, Kevin (San) Brandon, Jason Brandon, nieces McKenna Middleton, great nephews and nieces Lopaka, Delani, Ryan, Mason, Charlotte and Madison. His dogs were his "children."

A Vigil Service will be held at St. James Catholic Church on Friday, April 12, at 5 pm. A Funeral Mass will be at St. James Catholic Church on Saturday, April 13, at noon with a reception following at the VFW #3596, Plains, Montana. Ray will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. James Catholic Church, VFW #3596, in Plains, Montana, Elks Club or American Legion or TRACS (a "no kill" animal shelter) in Thompson Falls, Montana.