Tom Ray was born March 30, 1950 in Temple, Texas to W. B. “Mutt” and Eileen Ray. His rodeo career began with riding his family’s milk cows. At the age of 14 he entered his first steer riding contest. When Tom entered high school, he started competing in local rodeos. He received his RCA permit at the age of 18 and his card at 20.
Rodeo was a dream come true for Tom as he was able to travel all over the United States and meet some of the most interesting people on Earth. He can proudly say he is still friends with each of them.
Tom began his college career at Temple Junior College in 1971-72. He entered Sam Houston State University in 1973 and competed in the NIRA, pro rodeo and bull riding jackpots until his graduation in 1975.
Upon his graduation, he entered the financial industry and retired from the rodeo circuit upon his participation in the Belton PRCA Rodeo in 1977.
In 2005, Tom was asked to serve as President and CEO of the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. During his two years of service, he felt he was fortunate to have the support of a strong Board of Directors as they set a course to make monumental changes. These changes helped to further the growth and success of the organization.
Tom and his wife have two beautiful daughters and are grandparents of one special granddaughter.