Funeral service for Retired SFC (Pastor/Apostle) Carlos Celso Garay, 82 of Killeen, TX will be held Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 1:00 p.m. at Chisolm's Family Funeral Home in Killeen, TX. Burial with Full Military Honors will follow the service at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, TX.

Viewing will be held one hour prior to the service (12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.) at the funeral home.

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Pastor Carlos Garay Viewing
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With great love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Retired SFC (Pastor/Apostle) Carlos Celso Garay, who departed this world peacefully on May 4th, 2025, at the age of 82. Surrounded by his family and church ministry, Carlos left behind a legacy of servitude, resilience, and unwavering love.

Born in Colon, Panama on June 26, 1942, Carlos spent his life turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. A devoted husband to his wife, Audrey Garay, of 48 years and a loving father to seven children—Tamara, Carlos Jr., Carla, Michael, Sydney, Vikkie, and Erroll—he built a home grounded in warmth, laughter, and unconditional support.

In 1976 Carlos enlisted in the United States Army. Throughout his military career, he received numerous commendations and decorations for his exemplary service including: The Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Overseas Service Bars (1), Overseas Service Ribbons (3)  Army Service Ribbon, Drill Sergeant Instructor Badge, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbons (2), Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase III, Vietnam Winter & Spring 1970, DA Sanctuary Counteroffensive, Vietnam Counteroffensive Phase VII, National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign. Carlos served 21 years in the United States Army with two tours in Vietnam. He also earned a degree at Central Texas College.

In the year of 1975, he met Audrey Johnson and on May 13, 1977, they were united in Holy Matrimony. They shared 50 years of wonderful memories together. They also travel to various duty station throughout his military career.

Carlos pastored True Gospel Church in Killeen, Texas for 33 years, where his ministry touched the lives of countless members who have come and gone, with guidance and gentle wisdom.

He will be remembered for his humor and his love for his Panamanian roots. His favorite songs were 'What Happen Colon, Hola Panama' and James Brown's 'Papa's Got a Brand New Bag'.

He is preceded in death by his father, mother, and a few siblings. Carlos's spirit lives on in the hearts of his wife Audrey Garay; sisters, Norma Garay and Sadia, brother, Ricardo Garay and a host of other relatives and close friends, and all who were lucky enough to know him. In his words, "Keep on Pushing."

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to his wife.