Andy Ray Massingill

Andy Ray Massingill, of Gatesville, Texas passed away on August 7, 2025 at the age of 70, after being diagnosed with cancer a few weeks prior. At his request, there will be no public service. A private immediate family celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

Andy was born to parents Raymond Earl and Esther Hyles Massingill. He was preceded in death by his mother, and infant sister Debbie. Andy is survived by his father, Raymond Earl Massingill as well as the love of his life, Lee, whom he was married to and shared a wonderful life with for 31 years, his brothers Randy Earl and wife Linda, and Jeffery Todd and wife Nicole, as well as many uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins. He was much-loved by all of his family and friends.

Andy’s first love was the game of football soon followed by fishing and golf. In the last few years, he and his wife Lee enjoyed estate sales and antique dealing. He was a grand story teller and an avid prankster who truly entertained himself by good naturedly creating havoc at other’s expense. He is well known for the Mongoose – if you know, you know! Andy cared deeply for others, and in his last act of generosity, donated his corneas so that another might have sight.

In his youth, Andy’s first job was working for A.H. McCoy in Gatesville. He worked for his uncle’s 4-M Construction Company in early adulthood where he learned the skill of carpentry. Their many shenanigans on the jobsites kept the crew entertained.

Graduating from high school in 1973, Andy was an excellent and talented athlete. He enjoyed baseball, ran track, and played football for the Gatesville Hornets. In 1971 he was selected to second team All-District. A senior in 1972, he had the honor of Football Captain, Football All-Zone, Most Valuable Lineman, and he received the Hornet Pride award. Upon graduation, Andy was awarded football scholarships to Ranger Junior College and McMurray University. During this time, he was recognized as an All American. He later continued his higher education at Sam Houston University.

Andy began his TDCJ career in 1981. He was stationed at many units throughout his career. Notable positions included Sergeant and Captain at Ellis II. He was a Major at Eastham Unit and Assistant Warden at Hughes and Telford Units. He became a Senior Warden at Walker Sayle. He was also a Senior Warden at Price Daniels Unit, when he retired.

One of Andy’s most cherished accomplishments was in 1988 when he started the first TDCJ Canine Program for the State of Texas. He trained both drug and attack dogs, as well as their handlers. He called this program “his baby.”

Additionally, Andy was very active in civic organizations to include Kiwana’s Club, Lions Club, and the Chamber of Commerce, where he served as Director at various times. He has also been awarded an Honorary Life Member of the Community and awarded the Key to the City.

If you would like to honor Andy as well as his love of the game of football, A GHS Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established in his name at the 1st National Bank of Central Texas, Gatesville, Texas. Each year, a deserving football player who might not otherwise be afforded the opportunity to attend college, will be awarded this scholarship in Andy’s name.

Donations:  1st National Bank of Central Texas, 2908 E. Main Street, Gatesville, Texas 76528, (254) 216-6040, Attn: Andy Massingill Memorial GHS Scholarship Fund.