Daniel Ray Cartwright

Daniel Ray Cartwright (“Bubba”) was born on September 4, 1946, and went to be with his heavenly father on April 24, 2023, at the age of 75. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, living the 3 core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment while serving in the Vietnam War. After his death, Dan was transported out of Ussery Roan long-term care facility in a special honorary Taps ceremony, where he was surrounded by family and fellow Veterans, honoring his sacrifice and service to our country.

Dan was the first son and identical twin born to Ray and Mozelle Cartwright at St Anthony’s Hospital in Amarillo, just before midnight.  His twin, Don Cartwright was born 17 minutes later, just after midnight which allowed them to have separate birthdays. Dan was preceded in death by his son – Donald Jay “DJ” Cartwright; his parents; and younger sister – Patricia Saucedo. Survivors include 2 brothers, Don Cartwright of Amarillo and wife Jearene; David Cartwright of San Antonio and wife Gail; his daughter, Paula Beal. Dan had 7 grandchildren:  Conrad Cartwright and his children, Makenna and Anakin Cartwright; Drake Cartwright; Lucas Cartwright, Sawyer Cartwright, Madison Beal, Jayken Beal, and Hope Beal. Dan also claimed a ‘sister’, Mori who enhanced his quality of life for many years. Dan was “Bubba” to his nieces and nephews and many other extended family members. He was also blessed to have many friends who have also felt this loss.

Dan’s father, Ray was in Austria during World War II when he received the telegram that he had multiple children but was not told how many! In case you are too young to know what a telegram is, it is much slower and nothing like our modern forms of communication!

Dan and Don shared a lifetime full of ‘twin’ experiences including Golden Gloves Boxing, riding motorcycles, and being mischievous together.  In the 3rd grade, their mom dressed them alike. Dan never went to Math class and Don never went to English class until their teachers figured it out! The twin phenomenon was real, when one got sick or hurt, so did the other twin. After Dan left to serve in the military, Don had a high fever, finding out later that at the same time, Dan had been taken to the infirmary and placed on ice due to a high fever. When Dan broke both arms and a leg after a motorcycle accident, Don got rid of his motorcycle right away! When Dan’s son DJ was born, Don showed up and was mistaken for the baby’s father. Ultimately Don was the first to hold his nephew and namesake!

Dan’s pride and joy were his 2 children, Paula and DJ, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Dan was determined to serve his country despite being too young and signed up for the Navy before he was legally old enough to join. He served as a Navy Veteran from December 1963 – November 1969 and fought to ensure our freedom. Dan left the military with the rank of Slick Sleeve Chief Quarter Master.  He steered the USS Columbus CG-12  through the Panama Canal on multiple occasions and was proud of this accomplishment, and often spoke of the experience.  He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal/Ribbon, and Good Conduct Medal during his military career. Dan graduated with an associate degree from a technology college in Dallas in 1978. After retiring, Dan enjoyed watching Old Westerns and playing cards and Bingo in the game room with his friends at his apartment building.

Dan was very complimentary of the care that he received from the VA, in-home caregivers, Enhabit Hospice and Ussery Roan. The family is grateful for all that was done to enhance the quality at the end of Dan’s life. Dan is now breathing without difficulty, is not dependent on oxygen and is in the presence of God, his son DJ, and friends and family. Dan will be missed, and his loss will be felt but comfort is found in knowing that he is no longer suffering.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or your favorite ministry. There will be no public service. A private memorial and family gathering will be held in honor of Dan “Bubba” Cartwright.