Ruby Jewel Ray

Ruby Jewel Ray, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Ruby passed away on September 26, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on March 4, 1957, in Washington County, Texas, Ruby was the beloved daughter of Albert House Sr. and Annie House. Her life was a testament to love and her unwavering dedication to her family. She met her husband, John E. Ray, and they were married on March 27, 1976. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love and laughter, sharing over 50 years of marriage. Their union was blessed with three children: Tanya Ray, Kevin Ray, and Tamara Ryan. Ruby took immense pride in her grandchildren: Xavier Ray, Johnathan Ryan, Maddox Ray, and Rickie Ryan III, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. Ruby's career was one of compassion and service. She worked as a cook at several establishments, including Willie's Steak House, St. Jude Hospital, Trinity Hospital and most recently Baylor Scott & White Hospital. Her culinary skills not only nurtured bodies, but they also warmed the hearts of many. Her nurturing spirit extended to her role as a direct caregiver at the Brenham State School, where her kindness and empathy left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. She was known for her love of cooking for her family. Her favorite food to make was soul food, and everyone loved her delicious peach cobbler. Her legacy of love, laughter, and delicious meals will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know her. Ruby was predeceased by her parents, Albert Sr. and Annie House; her in-laws, Elder John and Annie Bell Ray; sisters-in-law Gloria Dean Hackett, DeVerne Ray, Francine Ray and Ann Graves Ray; brothers-in-law Donald Wilson Sr., Robert Martin, and Billy Joe Thomas; and her nephews Ray Crawford Jr and Joshawn Thomas. She is survived by her husband John Earl Ray, her children, Tanya, Kevin (Ami), and Tamara (Rickie); her grandchildren Xavier Ray, Johnathan Ryan, Maddox Ray, and Rickie Ryan III; siblings Albert House Jr., Margie Martin, Anna Crawford (Ray Sr.), Nellie House, Gladys Lockett (Fred), Tommy House (Kim), Bernice House (Danny), Donald House (Sandy), and Michael House; as well as numerous in-laws, including Patricia Thomas, Edward Ray Sr. (Sherrie), Linda Wilson, Laverne Gill (Mathis Sr.), Norris Ray, Antionette Jackson, Sylvia Hubert (Calvin), Ronnie Ray (Jackie), Cynthia Cunningham, Sandra Gilbert (Ray), and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. As we remember Ruby Jewel Ray, let us celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, compassion, and a generous spirit that will continue to inspire us all. Her memory will always be in our hearts.