James Anderson Ray

November 3, 1942 – December 17, 2025

Jimmy was born in Houston to John and Roberta Ray and grew up an adventurous kid along Buffalo Bayou and a cowboy who loved riding his prized horse, “Buckshot”. He was a proud member of Lamar High School-FFA and raised a steer named “George”, who Jimmy once had to chase down old Westheimer Road when he escaped from his pen. It is no surprise Jimmy developed a love for Westerns as he grew older -- commonly having a John Wayne movie on TV while simultaneously reading a cowboy book in his favorite chair.

After graduating from Lamar High School, he attended the University of Texas and met the love of his life – Tina Shanks – whom he married after a short courtship. After briefly living in Austin where Jimmy worked for Tina’s father (Louis Shanks) in the furniture business, they returned to Houston and he joined his father’s insurance agency, John R. Ray & Sons. Over the course of the next 39 years, Jimmy and his brother, John Ray, Jr., worked together to grow the agency into one of the most well-regarded insurance agencies in Houston. During his esteemed career, he served on the advisory councils for national insurance companies, Aetna and Fireman’s Fund, and was a director for the Independent Insurance Agents of Houston.

Jimmy loved being involved with all his children’s activities especially their sporting events. He coached Stephen’s Little League Baseball for years and served on the Board of Memorial Ashford Little League. He was also actively involved with Indian Guides/Princesses with Shelly, Shannon, and Stephen. Jimmy also felt blessed that the kids had dear friends growing up and took great interest in keeping up with them over the years.

When the grandchildren arrived, “PaPa” (who was also occasionally and affectionately called “Grumpa”) was a regular spectator at hundreds of sporting events and other school activities. He was also a loyal Texas Longhorn fan.

Jimmy was an avid tennis player (and active member of the Westside Tennis Club) until golf became his passion. Jimmy played regularly with his dear friend Bob Dubois, including hundreds of rounds at his beloved Memorial Park Golf Course in which his favorite hole (and nemesis) was No 15. After retirement, Jimmy particularly enjoyed playing several times a week with two senior groups through which he made many great friends. The highlights of his golfing career were his hole-in-one at Jersey Meadow Golf Course and a special golf trip to Pebble Beach for his 70th Birthday. Jimmy was also an enthusiastic hunter as a younger man. He enjoyed a good afternoon shooting dove and quail in South Texas.

Jimmy was predeceased by his parents and his beloved sister, Susan Mayfield. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Tina, and his children Shelly (Ray Arredondo), Shannon (Jeff Davis) and Stephen (Brandy). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ashley Davis (and her fiancé David Magat), Walker Davis, Brady Ray, Travis Ray, and Cody Ray. Lastly, he leaves behind his brother John R. Ray, Jr. (Elizabeth) as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, if so desired, contributions would be appreciated to Boys & Girls Country of Houston-Hockley (www.boysandgirlscountry.org) or MD Anderson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at River Oaks Country Club on January 10, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm where all who knew and loved Jimmy are invited to join and share their memories.