Leslie Ray Paris

Leslie Ray Paris, eighty-nine, of Tahoka, Texas passed away on Sunday, July 7th, 2024. He was the third of nine children. Born in Hidalgo County on May 3rd, 1935, to Leslie Paris and Anna Violet Hedge Paris. He was the oldest son and after his father’s passing at 7 years old, he became the man of the house. Leslie left school in 10th grade to work and provide for his family. Leslie met Maxine in O’Donnell when he was 16 years old. He thought she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen and asked if he could drive her home. They were married two years later in October 1953. Soon after, in 1954 he traveled to Rock Island, Illinois to Bear Manufacturing School for front end alignment. Out of school they traveled to Gallop, New Mexico and Odessa before eventually settling back in Tahoka, Texas where they raised three children, Leslie “Pug”, Danny, and Kellie. He was the owner and operator of Tahoka Safety Lane from 1955 – 1995 where he spent countless hours performing maintenance, repairs, and body work on vehicles. He also farmed cotton and ran cattle with his son Danny and spent many late nights in the field, doing whatever job needed him! He was always covered in grease and dirt, and his hands wore the calluses of a man who worked hard.   

Leslie was a devoted husband and father and loved to get together with family. He was a collector of old cars and loved telling stories. He could spend hours talking about the different makes, models, and engines.  

Leslie is survived by his son, Leslie (Pug) Paris and his wife Pam; daughter, Kellie Paris Craig and her husband Joe Craig; daughter-in-law, Kim Paris; sister, Nelda Hill; brother, Jim “Buddy” Hill; his nine grandchildren, Brent Paris, Brek Young, Shea Hester, Jarid Pridmore, Josh Pridmore, Trevor Cook, Michael Paris, Skylar Kyzar and Kami Pierce; along with 23 great grandkids, and a host of nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.   

Leslie is preceded in death by his wife, Maxine Paris; Father, Leslie Paris; Mother, Anna Violet Paris; sisters, Billie Ruth McNeely, June Chandler, and Janice “Sissy” Graves; brothers, Donald Paris, Tom Paris, and Bob Paris; and son, Danny Michael Paris.

Visitation: Thursday, July 11, 2024 – Combest Funeral Home Tahoka 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 

Graveside Service: Thursday, July 11, 2024 – Nevel’s Cemetery 11:30AM

Food and Fellowship to follow at the Housing Authority all are welcome!