Louise Parsley Ray

Louise Wynelle Ray, aged 99, wife of Winfred H. Ray, passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday, November 26, 2021.   The eldest daughter of Joe and Elva Parsley, she was born on her father’s birthday, March 12 in Fort Worth, TX.

Louise graduated from Diamond Hill High School, Fort Worth, where she was Salutatorian of her class.  She married her sweetheart, Winfred Ray, in 1940, a marriage that lasted 69 years.  They had two daughters, Wynelle and Danette.

A woman of grace, faith, and devotion, Louise had a gentle spirit and a kind word for everyone.  She taught Sunday School, acted as president of the Diamond Hill PTA and worked for five years at the Justin Boot Company before moving to Georgetown in 1962.

In Georgetown, she helped her husband establish a Charolais cattle breeding ranch where she became adept at feeding calves on the bottle, climbing fences when a bull threatened, riding horses, and attending to the daily life of ranching.  In addition, she did all the paperwork required in raising registered cattle. 

Education was very important to her.  Louise made sure her daughters had access to a college degree, and both became teachers.   Danette taught for many decades in the Georgetown Independent School District.  Always an avid reader, Louise also loved music and theater.  She adored attending the Austin Symphony, especially Fourth of July celebrations, and Live Oak Theater and Palace Theater productions. 

Faith was an integral part of her daily life, a gift from her parents, and one she shared with her sisters, Melba Butler and Evelyn Daniels.  Together they formed a devoted family focused on living life according to the Bible. 

Louise was a serious steward of the environment and planted many native perennials and grasses in her garden.  She was also a friend to all sorts of wildlife.  She never turned away an animal in need of food, water or shelter.

Louise was preceded in death by her husband, Winfred; parents Joe and Elva Parsley; sister Evelyn Daniels; son-in-law Allan Jones; nephews Terry Joe Butler and Chad Butler; and many dearly loved pets and orphaned animals.

She is survived by her daughters, Wynelle Jones and Danette Ray; sister Melba Butler, son-in-law Charlie Clikeman and numerous nieces and nephews.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, you are invited to send remembrances to the Travis Audubon Society, Austin, TX, the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, Georgetown, or the charity of your choice.

After a lifetime of hard work and giving, may she rest in love and in peace.