Jim Ray Smith, a 1987 NFF College Football Hall of Fame inductee from Baylor, passed away Oct. 3. He was 94.
 
"Jim Ray Smith represented the very best of college football, excelling as one of the nation's premier linemen at Baylor before enjoying an outstanding NFL career," said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell. "But Jim's legacy extended well beyond his playing days. His decades of leadership and service to the Cotton Bowl and his continued dedication to Baylor reflected his deep love for the game and the people who make it special. We are grateful for his many contributions to college football, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."
 
A dominant two-way tackle and one of the Southwest Conference's premier linemen, Smith helped Baylor establish itself as a national contender under head coach George Sauer as a three-year starter from 1952 to 1954. A First Team All-America selection in 1953 and a Second Team pick in 1954, Smith also earned All-Southwest Conference honors twice. With Smith leading the way in the trenches, Baylor posted consecutive seven-win seasons in 1953 and 1954, finishing third in the Southwest Conference both years. The Bears climbed as high as No. 3 in the AP Poll in 1953, and the 1954 squad earned a berth in the Gator Bowl after recording victories over Texas, Texas A&M, TCU and SMU. Baylor finished the 1954 season ranked No. 18 nationally.
 
Born Feb. 27, 1932, in West Columbia, Texas, Smith was a four-sport standout at West Columbia High School before accepting a scholarship to Baylor. His impact extended beyond the field, as he participated in community service projects through the Baylor Chamber of Commerce. Former Baylor Athletics Director Bill Menefee praised Smith, saying: "He was not only a great football player, but he has always been an outstanding citizen who contributes to his community."
 
Following his collegiate career, Smith played in the 1955 College All-Star Game, helping the collegians defeat the defending NFL champion Cleveland Browns, 30-27. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1956, he enjoyed a nine-year NFL career with the Browns and Dallas Cowboys from 1956 to 1964, earning five consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1958 to 1962.
 
After his playing days, Smith became a successful Dallas real estate executive and remained deeply committed to college football. He served more than 30 years on the Cotton Bowl Athletic Association Board of Directors, including terms as chairman from 1984 to 1986 and team selection chairman from 1994 to 1996. He also served as president of the Baylor Lettermen's Club. Smith was inducted into the Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame in 1968 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2007.