07-05-2025
Wichita Falls honors Ray Gonzalez with highway overpass name
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — Wichita Falls City Council gave the green light for the southbound U.S. Highway 82 overpass to honor the late Ray Gonzalez.
The designation will begin near Gonzalez's foreign car shop by Bridwell Street and McGregor Avenue.
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The Mexican American Veterans Association began the work to honor Gonzalez back in February. MAVA president Jose Villastrigo and Gonzalez' daughter Renae Gonzalez Murphy said it's an honor to see the city remember its veterans.
'It's a tribute to a life well-lived. A legacy of service and a symbol of the values that hold dear faith, perseverance, and community. Dad is proud to call Wichita Falls home. He loved the city, and served it with everything he had as a soldier, as a small business owner, and as a public servant.' Gonzalez-Murphy said.
The resolution will now move to TxDOT officials to move forward with putting up the sign.
'He never sought recognition for his service or his sacrifice, but we know this moment would fill his heart with gratitude and pride,' Gonzalez-Murphy said. 'Thank you for persevering, for preserving his memory in a place that represents both his life's work and his lasting impact on the community.'
according to Gonzalez Murphy; Gonzalez is the first Purple Heart recipient to be recognized in this way.
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