Guy Gray Jr.: July 5, 1949-Oct. 20, 2026

Guy James Gray Jr., of Kerrville, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 77 years old.

Guy James was born on July 5, 1949, in Orange, Texas. His father, Guy James Gray Sr., served as school superintendent, and his mother, Mary Edith Harris Gray, was an English teacher. He was raised on their ranch in Harrisburg, Texas. Guy James spent much of his childhood exploring the outdoors, working open range cattle on horseback, or reading books about doing just that. From an early age, he developed a lifelong love for his family, cattle, horses, and the land.

Inspired by his grandfather, Judge William E. Gray, Guy James knew early in life that he wanted to pursue a career in law. After graduating from Jasper High School, he attended the University of Texas at Austin, graduating magna cum laude in 1971. He continued his education at the University of Texas School of Law, earning his Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1973.

Following law school, Guy James returned to Jasper, Texas, where he began a distinguished legal career, ultimately serving as District Attorney for 26 years. Throughout his tenure, he earned national and international recognition for his work and dedication to the pursuit of justice.

Guy James met the love of his life, Mary Adele Botts Gray, and the two were married December 10, 1977. Together, they built such a wonderful life. Through the 49 years, they shared a lifetime of experiences and adventures together.

His legal accomplishments included admission to practice before the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States District Courts. His distinguished service was recognized on the floor of the United States Senate by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. Among his many professional achievements, he received the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service, the United States Department of Justice’s highest honor, presented by Attorney General Janet Reno in Washington, D.C.

Beyond his remarkable legal career, Guy James was a man of many interests and passions. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed the sport for nearly his entire life, an accomplished aviator with a love of flying, and a man who found great joy in the ocean. Whether on the golf course, in the air, working the land he loved, or simply sitting by the sea, Guy James was happiest doing the things he loved with the people he loved.

Above all, Guy James loved his family. He maintained a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and the values instilled in him early in life. He leaves behind the legacy of a legend.

Guy James was preceded in death by his sons, Garrett James Gray and Jeremy Blake Williams, and his sister Elizabeth “Betty” Gray Belote.

Guy James is survived by his loving wife, Mary Botts Gray; his son, Collin Wayne Gray and wife Michelle; his daughter/granddaughter, Bailee Shay Gray; and his son, Brian Ashley Williams and wife Christina. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashley “Allie” Nelson, Makenzie Ringland and husband Kirk, Rylee Williams, Carlson Williams, and Barrett Wayne Gray; as well as two great-granddaughters.

Funeral Arrangements:

A Rosary and visitation will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., at Grimes Funeral Chapels in Kerrville, Texas.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Kerrville, Texas, followed by a graveside service at Glen Rest Cemetery in Kerrville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sisters in Service Kerrville or St. Peter upon the Water. Flowers are also welcome, please send them to Grimes Funeral Chapels.