Jean Ray's Obituary

Jean Ray (8/26/2007)

Jean Ray, a singer, songwriter and recording artist of the 1960s and '70s, died Sunday, Aug. 19, 2007, at her Durango home after a long illness. She was 66.

Ms. Ray rose to national prominence recording songs as part of the duet "Jim and Jean." With her partner, Jim Glover, she recorded four albums for Phillips Records. In addition to performing songs such as "Crucifixion" and "The Flower Lady," both written by Phil Ochs, Ms. Ray wrote her own songs, including "Honey, Can I Put On Your Clothes?" which was recorded by Barbra Streisand and Elke Brooks.

While living in Durango, Ms. Ray created the musical "Durango, 1892" with actor, director and writer Anna Price. She wrote the music and lyrics and starred in the lead role as Belle.

She is survived by her mother, Hazel Lee Ray of West Hollywood, Calif., and two half-sisters and two half-brothers, Kathryn Ray Haspel of Durango, Caroline Ray Blanchard of West Hollywood, Steve Ray of Santa Fe, N.M., and Brian Ray of Santa Monica, Calif.

No local services are scheduled.

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