Raymond Dale Middleton

Raymond "Dale" Middleton, age 81, of San Angelo, went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 21, 2026, at home reading his Bible in his favorite chair. He was born on May 2, 1945, to W.A. "Toodle" Middleton and Betty Jo Nelson Middleton in Brownwood. He married Troi Grissom Middleton on August 16, 1972.

Dale joined the U.S. Army after graduating from Brownwood High School in 1963. He was a paratrooper with the Screaming Eagles 101st Airborne Division. How do you jump out of airplanes if you are afraid of heights? He did it 123 times. Upon being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, Dale was Credit Manager and the Service Manager of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Dale later began a long career as Building, Fleet & Energy Manager with GTE/Verizon, retiring in 1993. This is when he began his faith filled journey with Jesus - which along with his family, was the most important part of his life. Dale was a true Christian, bringing his love of the Lord to everyone he met, whether young or old. He taught many Bible studies for the youth and children of his beloved Church, Sierra Vista United Methodist Church. His greatest joys were attending mission trips, youth fun trips, Church Camp, Confirmation Classes and Retreats, which were just a few of the ways he influenced the lives of those around him. "Mr. Dale" was the best church bus driver and a favorite of all.

He is survived by his wife, Troi, whom he shared 54 years of marriage; his daughter, Tori Lea Middleton McCrea and her husband (the best son-in-law ever), Eric Shane McCrea; his three beautiful granddaughters who were the light of his life, Kylie Laverne McCrea, Taryn Lea McCrea, and Caitlin Shayann McCrea; his grandson Michael Layne Starnes; his sister Frankie "Jan" Lively and her husband Dobs Liveley; his mother in law, Evonne Teague; his brother in law Larry Grissom and wife Sue; a special sister in law, Maggie Middleton; and a number of special nieces, nephews, and cousins. Dale was preceded in death by his father, his mother, and his brother, Ronnie Allen Middleton.

A praise, worship and celebration service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Sierra Vista United Methodist Church. We ask those attending to please wear bright colors. We want to celebrate his life and his LOVE for the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Children's and/or Youth Ministries of Sierra Vista UMC or to a charity of your choice.

Well done my good and faithful servant!!

Philippians 1: 21 - For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.