Austin Restaurant Community Mourns Passing of Ray LeMay

Ray LeMay was a large and colorful man who loved life and lived it to the fullest. The charismatic former owner of Ray’s Steakhouse passed away this week at the age of 59. And he will be missed.

His restaurant was a haven for great food (best Chicken Fried Chicken ever) and wine but most of all it was Ray’s larger-than-life persona that set the tone for his rollicking eatery. On most nights Ray would preside at the bar, glass of good red wine in hand, and banter with friends both new and old. He had a great sense of humor enhanced by an impeccable sense of timing. And he loved what he did.

Since Ray and wife Sue closed the restaurant five years ago I’ve probably had more inquiries about what his plans were, and when and if he would reopen, than about any other place that had ever closed in this city. More often than not, the emails would end with a similar sentiment: “I sure miss that place.”

And I will miss Ray, as all who knew him most certainly will as well.