Jim Ray Smith Obituary, WEST COLUMBIA, Texas — Jim Ray Smith, a five-time Pro Bowl offensive guard and one of the most respected linemen of his era, has passed away at the age of 94, according to an announcement made on October 5. Born on February 27, 1932, in West Columbia, Texas, Smith built a lasting legacy through his accomplishments in college football and professional football.
Smith was a standout athlete at West Columbia High School, where he competed in four sports and developed the athletic ability that would later define his football career. He went on to attend Baylor University, where he became a three-year starter as a two-way tackle from 1951 to 1954 and earned national recognition for his performance on the field.
During his college career at Baylor, Smith received several honors, including First-team All-American recognition in 1953 and Second-team All-American honors in 1954. His achievements were later recognized with inductions into the Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame in 1968 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
Smith was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the sixth round of the 1954 NFL Draft as a future selection before completing his college eligibility. After serving 23 months in the U.S. Army, he joined the Browns late in the 1956 season and initially played as a defensive end.
The following season marked a turning point in Smith’s career when Cleveland Browns head coach Paul Brown moved him to offensive guard. His combination of speed, strength, and football intelligence quickly established him as one of the league’s top blockers, eventually earning him a full-time starting role.
From 1958 through 1962, Smith became one of the NFL’s premier guards, earning five consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1958 to 1962, three First-team All-Pro honors from 1959 to 1961, and two Second-team All-Pro honors in 1958 and 1962. He played a key role in the Browns’ powerful rushing attack that featured Hall of Fame running backs Jim Brown and Bobby Mitchell.
After briefly retiring following the 1961 season to focus on his real-estate business, Smith returned to the Browns for the 1962 season. In 1963, the Dallas Cowboys acquired his rights, allowing him to finish his professional career in Texas. Injuries during the 1963 and 1964 seasons eventually led to his retirement from football.
Following his playing career, Smith remained involved in athletics and served on the board of directors for the Cotton Bowl Athletic Association. He was later honored by the Cleveland Browns with induction into the Cleveland Browns Legends in 2005.
Jim Ray Smith will be remembered as one of the finest offensive linemen of his generation, known for his toughness, leadership, and professionalism throughout his football career. His contributions to the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and the sport of football continue to be recognized, and condolences are extended to his family, friends, teammates, and all who admired his legacy.