Jacqueline May Ray

Jacqueline Ray (née Estep), born on September 14, 1939, in Dehue, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and cherished memories. Known for her strength, unwavering faith, and devotion to her family, Jacqueline’s life was a testament to perseverance and compassion.

Born into a coal mining family as one of twelve children, Jacqueline’s early life in West Virginia was filled with humble beginnings and a strong sense of community. An eager learner, she excelled academically and won a spelling bee in eighth grade. At just 13 years old, Jacqueline faced the profound loss of her mother to cancer. As one of the eldest siblings still at home, she selflessly stepped up to care for her younger brothers and sisters, a role that shaped her nurturing spirit.

Jacqueline’s life took her to many places, living in eight states, each marking a chapter in her incredible journey. Her first stop was North Carolina, where she lived with her sister Bonnie and met her first husband, David Koerte. Together, they had two sons, David and Michael. Following her divorce, Jacqueline returned to North Carolina, where she met her second husband, Thomas “Tex” Ray. After Tom’s service in Vietnam, they married. Following Tom’s retirement from the Marine Corps in 1969, they settled in Austin, Texas, where they welcomed two sons, Thomas and Timothy.

Jacqueline and Tom raised their family in Buda, Texas, where they built a life filled with love and faith. Following Tom’s retirement from the City of Austin, they moved to Clarksville, Tennessee, before settling in Schertz, Texas. After Tom’s passing in 2010, Jacqueline relocated to Frisco, Texas, to be closer to her youngest son, Tim, and his family.

Jacqueline’s life was rich with interests and passions. She found joy in bowling, Bible study, volunteering, and writing down her reflections and deep thoughts. A devoted mother and grandmother, she cherished her time with her grandchildren and delighted in their achievements.

Jacqueline is survived by her four sons: Thomas (Karen) Ray, Timothy (Kristi) Ray, Michael (Lu) Koerte, and David; her twin brother, Jack (Sharon) Estep, and younger brother, Jim (Malinda) Estep; her grandchildren: Becky Ray, Hannah Ray, Ally Ray, Joan Ray, Uilani (Koerte) Costales, Mike Koerte, Tia Koerte, Sandra Koerte, and Shelly (Koerte) Fund; as well as many beloved great-grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her husband, Thomas Wayne Ray, and her siblings: John Estep, Lewis Estep, Joann Bowen, Bonnie Colegrove, Frank Estep, Jennings Estep, Lou Ray, Linda Brown, and Vivian Marshburn.

A celebration of Jacqueline’s life will be held at Schertz United Methodist Church on February 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with a gathering to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jacqueline’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart.

Jacqueline’s warmth, selflessness, and unwavering love will be dearly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.