James "J.M." Mallard Ray

James “J.M.” Mallard Ray, age 95, of Palestine, Texas, peacefully passed away and joined our loving Lord in Heaven on Sunday, the 5th day of December 2021.  Mr. Ray was born on the 19th day of August 1926, in Slocum, Texas, to parents Sylvester Ray and Ruby Tilley Mallard.

Mr. Ray was a Veteran and served in the United States Navy during World War II.  He retired from Union Pacific Railroad after many years of dedicated service.  After retiring, Mr. Ray loved to work in his garden, and he handed the secrets of a successful garden down to his daughter, Susan. Throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting and passed that passion on to his son, Mitchell. Mr. Ray had a big heart and great sense of humor.  He could tell a good story that would leave you laughing for days.  Mr. and Mrs. Ray were members of Crockett Road Church of Christ, where they attended since Crockett Road Church was established.    

Mr. Ray was a doting husband to his wife throughout the years.  When her health declined, and she was unable to live at home Mr. Ray would go and visit her several times a day at the nursing home making sure she was well and had everything she needed.  He continued this for years until his health deteriorated and the two were joined together again at Legacy at Town Creek.   

He joins in Heaven his parents Sylvester and Ruby Ray; sister, Winona Huddleston; and his brother, Cecil Ray.

Mr. Ray is survived by his loving family including his wife of over 71 years, Irma “Pee Wee” Ray; daughters, Melody Paul and husband Gary, and Susan Ray, all of Palestine, Texas; son, Mitchell Ray and wife Leslie Wooley Ray of Huntsville, Texas; grandchildren, Alissa Paul, Taylor Paul and wife Jana, Jordan Ray and wife Lindsey, and Josie Ray.  Mr. Ray also leaves behind six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service to celebrate Mr. Ray’s life is to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon, on Sunday, the 12th day of December 2021 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Dan Manuel and Ben Rhone officiating.  Immediately following, all are invited to attend a reception in the Rhone Reflection Room.

For those unable to attend the service, livestreaming will be available via the Rhone Funeral Home’s Facebook page.

The family would like to thank Dr. Chadwell and the staff at Legacy at Town Creek for the excellent care they provided to Mr. Ray.

Memorial and cremation services for James “J.M.” Mallard Ray are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.  

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