Margaret Jo (Bradshaw) Ray

Margaret Jo (Bradshaw) Ray left to her heavenly home Nov. 14,2023 in Celina. She was born Feb. 9, 1934 in Olney to Joe Neal Bradshaw and Mayola (Ledbetter) Bradshaw. She had two siblings: Dorothy Lou (Bradshaw) Barrington and Alvin Neal Bradshaw. All her immediate family preceded her in death.

The family lived on their farm in Borden County until she married her best friend, Frank Edgar Ray in 1951 in Lamesa. They moved to Big Spring and Mom went to work in the Courthouse and Dad to Cosden Refinery (as it was called then) where they both stayed until retirement. Margaret worked in the courthouse for 46 years with the majority of time in the County Clerk's office. She was elected County Clerk after her boss, Pauline S. Petty retired. She was a well-respected County Clerk and served in several capacities on the Board as well as a term as President of the State of Texas District and County Clerk's Association. She loved being a public servant for all the visitors to her office and an advisor to all the clerks throughout the state.

She is survived by 2 daughters: Deborah Jo Ray of Celina and Michele Yvonne (Ray) Pendley of San Antonio; 3 grandchildren: Joey Ray (wife, Jodi Ann), Jenny Mills (husband, Kyle) all of Celina and Austin Pendley of San Antonio. Also, 7 great-grandchildren: Mason, Mitchell, Hannah, Gigi, Merritt, Brae and Keigan. Family was so important to Margaret. She loved each and wanted to be with them as much as possible. She was “a loving angel, tender, tough and strong.” (Garth Brooks, “Mom,” 2017)

In lieu of flowers please donate to your charity of choice, St Jude's, or visit the Tribute Store (here at Myers and Smith) to plant a tree.

A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Myers & Smith Chapel."

Arrangements are by Myers and Smith Funeral Home. Pay your respects online at www.myersandsmith.com.