Jacksonville - Gregory Alan Ray, 65, passed away peacefully at his home in Jacksonville on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Greg was born on September 1, 1960, in Jacksonville, to Claudean and Martha (Koen) Ray, the third of six boys. He had an idyllic country-boy childhood, attending Jacksonville schools until 1976, graduating Trinidad High School in 1979.

He began work with Texas Power & Light (now Texas Utilities) in 1980, working in Savoy and Tyler. He then completed Kilgore Police Academy, beginning his law enforcement career with Jacksonville Police Department, becoming a Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputy and retiring in 2023 from Anderson County Sheriff's Department. He was very proud of his service to his community. Greg's total time served as a peace officer totaled over 30 years.

Greg was a member of the Church of Christ, and he exhibited his faith in every aspect of his life. He was soft-hearted, kind, and was known for his generosity and compassion, always willing to help in any situation. Greg had an irrepressible sense of humor, making every family gathering memorable with his dry wit and stories of his work adventures.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, Steve and Vera Koen and Clyde and Estelle Ray.

Left to cherish his memory are his brothers, Ricky Macoy of Berryville, Jim Ray, Ronnie Ray, Donnie Ray, and John Ray, all of Jacksonville and; many nieces and nephews; several aunts and uncles; and numerous friends of law enforcement.

A memorial service will be held at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11 a.m., with a private family burial at Tecula Cemetery at a later date.

Rather than customary condolences, please consider making a donation to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org or in Greg's memory to Cherokee County Peace Officer Association, at 210 W. Larissa St, Jacksonville, TX 75766.