Born in Kentucky, David M. Ray (1840-1907) was the second of eight children to Zachariah Ray and Elizabeth A. Miller, daughter of prominent Baptist minister Reverend David Miller. When Ray was twelve, his family moved to Grayson County, Texas. At twenty, he decided to study medicine under Dr. William P. Head of Kentucky Town.
Before Ray completed his studies, the Civil War broke out, and he joined the Confederate Army as a private in the 16th Texas Cavalry (Dismounted). Appointed hospital steward, he passed the examination to become an assistant surgeon within a year. He also received a teaching certificate that enabled him to teach various subjects, including English grammar, arithmetic, and geography.
After the end of the Civil War, Ray resumed his medical studies. He graduated with high honors from the medical department of the University of Louisville, Kentucky in 1867. He returned to Grayson County, Texas to open a medical practice and was highly regarded in his field. In 1873, Ray married Sarah E. Beall, a fellow native of Kentucky. They had three children: Edna; Bright, who passed away at a young age; and Inez. Ray continued to practice medicine in Grayson County until his death on May 7, 1907.
From the guide to the Ray, David, Papers 1945., 1859-1879, (Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, University of Texas at Austin)
