Member Biography

"He was not only a great football player, but he has always been an outstanding citizen who contributes to his community." That's how Bill Menefee, Athletic Director at Baylor University, described Jim Ray Smith. There was little question Jimmy Ray Smith could play football. The fans in tiny West Columbia, Texas, recognized the special talent when Jim was still playing high school football. He played tackle for Baylor for three years and in 1953 was named to the All-America team picked by the American Football Coaches Association. And even while he was earning all-star football honors he was working in the Baylor Chamber of Commerce on community projects. Smith served in the U.S. Army in 1955-1956. He played nine years of pro football with Cleveland and Dallas Cowboys from 1956 to 1964, and was named to the Pro Bowl five times. He started a business career in Dallas, and was recognized in two assignments -president of the Cotton Bowl Association and of the Baylor Lettermen's Club.