ElRay Dockins' Obituary
ElRay "Cowboy" Dockins, 80, of Washburn, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 29, 2026.
Private graveside services will be held at Washburn Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Robertson Funeral Directors.
ElRay was born on October 17, 1945, in Apache, Oklahoma, to Roy and Ivan Fields Dockins. At just 18 years old, he began working for the City of Amarillo, where he dedicated 30 years of service before retiring at the age of 52. He later worked for several years at Route 66 Motor Speedway.
A man known for his strong work ethic, ElRay believed in working hard and rarely asked anyone for help. He was deeply respected and loved by all who knew him. Standing 6 feet 8 inches tall, he carried a natural charm and presence that family and friends affectionately referred to as the "Dockins charm."
On September 4, 1964, he married the love of his life, Gwyn Mithlo Dockins, in Amarillo, Texas. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and lasting memories while raising their two children.
Family was the heart of ElRay's life. He and Gwyn enjoyed traveling together, especially on trips to try their luck gambling. He loved gathering with family and friends to play poker and dominoes, working in his yard, and cooking outdoors. Some of his favorite things included McDonald's coffee, carrot cake, Marlboro cigarettes, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.
Though he will be greatly missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he is reunited with his beloved Gwyn. In his own words, "I was only passing through, and this is where the cowboy rides away."
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gwyn Dockins; his mother, Ivan Dockins, whom he affectionately called "Mommy"; his father, Roy Dockins, whom he called "Poppy"; his beloved grandson, Carson Dockins; and ten brothers and sisters.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Daynner Dockins and wife, Lisa; his daughter, Gina Dockins; his son-in-law, David, whom he considered a son; his grandchildren, Autumn Bradburn and husband, Brian, Hayden Dockins and wife, Britnee, Chase Dockins and wife, Hillary, James Dockins and wife, Allie, and ElRay Dockins II; his great-grandchildren, Camille Dockins, Raiden Dockins, Scarlett Dockins, Slade Dockins, and Cache Waylon Bradburn; as well as one great-grandchild on the way.
ElRay's legacy of hard work, loyalty, love for family, and unmistakable charm will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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