J. D. RAY (1860-1901 - Obituary, Smith County, TX

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Submitted by Jo Nell Williams - JoNellLOC@aol.com 

In Memory of J. D. Ray

It is with sorrow that we are called upon to write a few lines in memory of our departed friend and brother,
J. D. Ray.

Bro. Ray was born in Smith county, Texas, Dec. 2, 1860.  He professed faith in Christ in August, 1876. 
He was baptised into the fellowship of old Mt. Lebanan Baptist church by Bro. W. H. Hendricks.  
After living a consistent member  of that church seven years, he went into the organization of Pine Springs 
Baptist church, Sept. 29, 1883.  He lived a consistent, consecrated member of this church until death 
released him from his labors here on this earth.  On Dec. 10, 1884 , he was married to Miss Joe H. Robins 
and settled in this community, where he was born and raised.  He was one among the first to engage in 
the fruit and vegetable business in East Texas.  By energy, honest and good management he accumulated 
considerable property.  He was a warm-hearted, lovable Christian, always giving liberally of his means to 
every charitable cause.  In him the widow and orphans always found a friend ready to help in every time 
of need.  He leaves a wife and five children to mourn his lost, one infant child having gone on before.

Bro. Ray was taken sick with slow fever in Sept., 1900, of which he never entirely recovered, but lingered 
until June 28, 1901.  He passed peacefully away and entered into that rest prepared for the people of God. 
The funeral services were held at Sandflat church July 2.  A large concourse of relatives and friends
were at the cemetery to pay their last respects to their friend and brother.            Bro J. H