During the morning of October 8, 2009 James Earl Ray passed away in his sleep to be with the Lord.
Lt. Colonel James E. Ray was born in Montgomery, Alabama July 9, 1926. He attended Lanier High School and Huntington College where he earned a Degree in Business Administration. Although he did not attend the University of Alabama, he always maintained a fierce loyalty and dedication to his beloved “Crimson Tide”.
His outstanding Patriotic career in the military began in the United States Navy during World War II. After his honorable discharge, he joined the Army Reserve while attending college. In 1951 his unit was activated and he encountered action in the Korean War.
In the intervening years, he served in Viet Nam and was stationed in various posts around the world. His contributions to the United States Army were demonstrated by countless promotions up to and including Lt. Colonel attained prior to his retirement in August of 1972.
He is survived by his children John and Glenn Ray and Aime Hubbard. His oldest son James Earl Ray Jr. [whom] preceded him in death. He is also survived by a sister Ruby Grenade, of Montgomery, Alabama, and nine grandchildren.
He became an early and pivotal personage in the development of South Walton County, beginning in 1972 with the management of the “Store at Grayton Beach” (currently the Red Bar). Working with partners he developed numerous properties in Grayton Beach. His major accomplishment was the development of the 27 acres housing 80 different lots, [known] today as Gulf Trace. For thirty years he managed the
development, and up until his death was a member of the Board of Directors of the Gulf Trace Owners Association.
In addition Lt. Colonel James E. Ray constructed and managed properties in Seagrove and developed Flamingo Village and Rufus Ray Plaza in San Destin. Lt. Colonel James E. Ray was an astute businessman in all areas, a visionary developer who very early recognized the potential of the Emerald Coast, and a practical and down to earth Manager. He always demonstrated the inner discipline developed over the years as a military officer, but at the same time he was a warm and gracious friend with a fine sense of humor and a genuine interest in everyone he came in contact with.
A time of visitation will be held 3 :00-4:00 PM, Sunday, October 11, 2009 at Cross Point Church; 1477 HWY 393, Santa Rosa.
[Source: The Freeport Post, October 14, 2009, Page 10]
[Burial: Gulf Cemetery, Santa Rosa Beach]