Donnie Ray Boykin

Donnie Boykin, born July 4, 1930, passed away on June 2, 2021, at the age of 90.  Born and raised in Santa Rosa, TX where he attended school until he joined the services in 1947.  At the age of 17, Donnie enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country for 21 years.  During this time, he served on many ships, sometimes alongside his brothers, including a tour of duty at the Pentagon in Washington D.C.  After many years of service, Donnie retired as Chief Petty Officer.

After retiring from the U.S. Navy, Donnie returned home to become a Deputy Sheriff for Cameron County and later was elected Veteran’s Service Officer with Cameron County Veteran’s Services.  He proudly served Cameron County for 24 years.  During this time, he gave his all in helping many people and made lasting friendships along the way.

Donnie was a long-standing member of the Harlingen Elks Lodge, where he spent many hours volunteering his service (In the Shack on the Hill) helping others.

Donnie is survived by his wife, Gloria Boykin, his children, Curtis (Jennice) Boykin, Susie (Bill) Groves, Barbara (Buddy) Stohler, Jessie (Aurora) Boykin, Cynthia (Jude) Griggs, Rebecca (Benito) Quintero, Ida Guerra; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews: sisters, Yvonne (Dalton) Willis and Iva Jo (Sterling) Gray.  Special friend, Bruce Thomas and faithful friend Bodil (Bo) Page.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ira W. and Claudia M. Neil Boykin; his first wife, Ima Jean; daughter, Donna Young; brothers, J.W. (Dub), Leo, Roger, Dickie, Dennis and sister, Elsie Palmer.

In keeping with Donnie’s wishes, he is to be cremated.  A memorial gathering will be announced at a later date.  Donnie will truly be missed by all who knew his helpful and loving ways.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home, 1400 W. Business 77, San Benito, Texas 78586.  www.sanbenitofuneralhome.com (956) 291-4178