Leslie “Les” Ray Alley, born on May 12, 1952, in Gonzales, Texas, passed away on August 9, 2026. Les’s life was defined by hard work, steadfast values, and most importantly a fierce love for his family.

He worked for Tumco (Texas Utilities Mining Co) for 20 years, where he was a valued employee working his way up to a supervisory role. His coworkers remember his strong work ethic, fairness and willingness to always lend a helping hand. Les also worked for Central Plains for 10 years and East Texas Bridge for 3 in supervisory and management roles. He thoroughly enjoyed his career and spoke often about the people and his time working.

Les was very active in his community. He served as a school board member for Union Grove ISD coaching Union Grove Softball teams when his children were in school during those years. Les also was a member of the Union Grove Fire Department.

Outside of work and community activities, Les enjoyed spending his time fishing, hunting, gardening, and working with tractors. He especially enjoyed rebuilding and selling all makes of tractors. He was fond of a particular older John Deere tractor he called “Tutt Tutt” that would start on one turn of the key. Les had a lifelong love for Texas and would let you know how proud he was of being from the Lone Star State.

Les and Marguerite only moved to Louisiana to be close to family in their retirement years. One particular talent that will be missed, Les fabricated Smokers, and provided the Texas style smoked meats for the frequent family gatherings. Family meant everything to Les, and he enjoyed the time he got to spend there.

Les is survived by his wife, Marguerite Alley; daughter, Theresa Ryder and husband Randy; grandchildren, Lane Youngblood, Gracie Beason and husband Noah, Taylor Braley and husband Gavin, Lauren Lenz and husband Logan, Kristin Ryder and Taylor Ryder; great grandchildren, Reid Youngblood, Everly Beason, Cove Braley and Laklynn Lenz; brother, Floyd Cook.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Mary Mikesh, John and Janice Alley and son, Jeffrey Alley.

Les’s wish was to be cremated, serving as honorary pallbearers will be his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Family, friends, and community members are invited to honor Leslie “Les” Ray Alley’s memory at a visitation on August 22, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater. A celebration of life will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. at the same location.