Thurman James Ray

Attended Colonial Hill Elementary School and graduated from Forest Avenue High School in 1946, University of Texas at Austin and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1950. He was a proud member of Tau Delta Phi Fraternity. Also attended Southern Methodist University.

Served in USAF Reserves from 1948 to 1952 and on active duty during the Korean War 1951-1952.

He entered the College of Optometry at the University of Houston in 1953. Graduated with Doctor of Optometry degree in 1956.

Practiced optometry for 42 years, including private practice for 32 years in Oak Cliff at the Zang Medical Center.

During his professional career, he was a member of National Eye Research Foundation, Southwest Contact Lens Society, Oak Cliff Lions Club, North Texas Optometric Society, Texas Optometric Association, College of Optometry Alumni Association.

He loved music and played piano throughout his college and military years, and then with local bands in Dallas. In Dallas he had a radio show on KIXL playing melodies of the day as listeners called in requests. His favorite music was the Big Band sound. He also enjoyed gardening, dancing, traveling, anything chocolate, cooking and ushering for Brotherhood at Temple Emanu-El, and socializing with friends, family, and his loving dog, Scooter.

Preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Robin Peterson.

Survived by: Wife of 65 years, Eileen Kirsh Ray, daughter Phyllis Cox (Ronnie), son-in-law Bob Peterson, grandsons, Shawn Cox (Kati), Corey Cox, step-grandchildren Kim Bizjak (Justin), Shawna Rainford (Billy), Cory Peterson and five step-great grandchildren, sister-in-law Shar Fromhoff, nieces Fayne Bouguyon (Chris), Janna Hunt, nephew Bruce Fromhoff (Debbie) and grand nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Temple Emanu-El at a later date.