Cyril LaRay Collyer, known to family and friends simply as LaRay, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the age of 73 surrounded by his children.

LaRay was born on October 11, 1952, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Joseph Collyer and Lorraine Martin. He graduated from high school in 1970 from Kirtland High School and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Range Management, graduating from New Mexico State University in 1974.

Following college, LaRay built a distinguished career in the mining industry for 30 + years, serving in operations and management roles with BHP Mines throughout the Four Corners region. His expertise and leadership eventually took him abroad, where he held positions in Indonesia and Australia. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends through his work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

LaRay married for the first time in 1973. He later married Connie Winn in 1984, and they shared many years together until 2010. In 2023, he married Karen Walker, with whom he shared the final years of his life.

Family was the center of LaRay's world. He is survived by his wife, Karen Walker; his children, Matthew Collyer, Zacrey Hewett, Casey Collyer, and Crista Collyer and his stepchildren Liana Plummer, and Micah Wild. He also has cherished grandchildren, Matthew and Dylan Collyer, Cooper Hite, Kevin and Ali Collyer, Lucy Hewett, AnaSofia Roldan, Leo and Mac Akins, Easton and Jaxon Plummer.

He is also survived by his sisters, Pam Erickson, Lezlee Dixon, and Alison Collyer

He is preceded in death by his father Joseph Collyer, his mother Lorraine Martin, and his son Gregory Collyer.

LaRay loved the outdoors and embraced every opportunity to enjoy nature. Whether he was fishing, camping, hiking, four-wheeling, or serving as a steward of archaeological sites, he found joy in exploring and preserving the world around him. He also enjoyed bowling, pickleball, reading, traveling, diligently attending the Connie Mack World Series every year, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Those who knew LaRay will remember his generous spirit and his ability to make everyone feel welcome. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, often putting the needs of others before his own. He loved teasing people, giving nicknames, and sharing a laugh. To many, he was more than a friend or relative, he made everyone feel like family.

LaRay will be remembered as a man of honor, integrity, compassion, and devotion. His example, wisdom, humor, and unconditional love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A memorial service celebrating LaRay's life will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Oasis Ministries in Farmington, New Mexico.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched.

(Please join us in celebrating LaRay's life by wearing plaid or denim instead of traditional black attire. It was his signature style, and we believe he would rather see a room full of flannel shirts and blue jeans than black suits and dresses.)

In Lieu of flowers, you may also consider a donation to the Farmington Regional Animal Shelter.