Jimmy Jay Bray, Jr. (Jay), of Benton, Arkansas passed away on January 2, 2026. He was 60 years old. Jay was born on February 4, 1965. He graduated with honors from Joseph City High School and Northern Arizona University however he pursued one goal single-mindedly – training and showing horses.

Despite trying other careers, his lifelong passion for training and showing Arabian horses overrode all else and he dedicated most of his life to it. He amassed numerous National awards in both the Arabian and Pinto horse industries. It was because of horses that he met his wife of 24 years, Robin, at a horse show.  They settled in Benton, Arkansas, where they built his training facility, made their home and raised their family.

After retiring from riding, he joined the family commercial and residential property rental business, where his diligence and sense of responsibility led him to eventually take over its operations. In addition, Jay took great pride and joy in the cattle business. He was a lifetime member of the Arkansas Cattlemen's Association.

He loved his farm and spent countless hours improving the land. He also enjoyed fishing, particularly trout fishing and more recently, deep sea fishing with his cousin Richard. He loved to cook and his breakfast burritos were famous.

Above all, Jay was a devoted husband, family man, and friend. He kept a small circle, but those lucky enough to be included will remember his quick wit, kind heart, unwavering loyalty and the quiet way he showed his love through action rather than words.

Jay is survived by his wife, Robin, son John Justin, parents, Jimmy and Judy Bray of New Mexico, brother, Dale (Karen) Bray of Arizona, cousin Richard (Debby) Dennis of Texas, nephews Ryan (Tahlisa) and Chance (Samantha) Bray of Arizona and many other cousins whom he loved.

He was predeceased by his son, Cody.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday., at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jay's name to the Horsemen's Distress Fund https://horsemensdistressfund.networkforgood.com/projects/278821-in-memory-of-jay-bray.

Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com