Elton Ray Hutchison

At the time of his death, Ray was a partner at the law firm of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP in Dallas. During his more than 50 year career, he served as bond counsel to state and local governments and was regarded as the dean of bond lawyers in the Slate of Texas. He served as chairman of the Texas Republican Party from 1976 to 1977. After leaving electoral politics in 197X, he became a trusted behind-the-scenes counselor for Republicans across the state, and was an invaluable partner and supporter as his wife, Kay Bailey, ran successfully for state and then federal office. A lifelong Republican, Ray was instrumental in forming and influencing the modem Republican Party in Texas. He served in the Texas House of Representatives from 1973 to 1977, and, was chosen each term as one of Texas' Ten Best Legislators. He served as chairman of the Texas Republican Party from 1976 to 1977. Ray served in the United States Navy from 1952 through 1954. lie graduated from Southern Methodist University with a B.B.A. with honors in 1957, and cum laude from Southern Methodist University Dcdman School of Law with his J.D. in 1959. He is survived by his wife, former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, his brother, O.B. Hutchison and sister-in-law Rosella Hutchison of Dallas; children. Brenda Maxon and husband. Earl Maxon of El Paso, Texas, Julie Krebs of Phoenix, Arizona, Bailey Hutchison and Houston Hutchison; and grandchildren Travis, Camille, llailey, Ashton and Aaron. He was preceded in death by his father, Oscar Bryant Hutchison and his mother, Lula Stovall Hutchison, brothers, James H. Hutchison, Billy Joe Hutchison, sister, Dorothy Hutchison Dees and son. Bradley Hutchison.