TITLE: In memory of Jim Gray of Eddy.

SUMMARY: In memory of Jim Gray of Eddy.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the residents of Eddy in mourning the loss of the Reverend Jim Gray, who died January 30, 2013, at the age of 68; and WHEREAS, Jim Gray was born on February 11, 1944, in Lubbock; he graduated from Odessa High School in 1962 and joined the United States Air Force; during his service, he studied at the Institute of Far Eastern Languages at Yale University and served as a Chinese linguist in the Vietnam War; and WHEREAS, After his return home, Mr. Gray earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from The University of Texas at Austin, and for the next decade he worked for the federal government; and WHEREAS, Reverend Gray's call to the ministry came in 1983; among his congregations was the First Baptist Church in Eddy, where he devotedly ministered for 10 years; in 1999, he became associate pastor for senior adults at First Baptist Church Woodway; it was a job he cherished, and he remained in the position until his death; and WHEREAS, A man of depth and devotion, Reverend Gray enjoyed traveling with his congregants, and he was greatly admired as an inspirational force whose ministry shaped the lives of many; he leaves behind his beloved wife of 48 years, Kay, and their children and grandchildren, who will long cherish their memories of this compassionate man; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Jim Gray; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Jim Gray. Birdwell President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 4, 2013, by a rising vote.