“Ray Approved”
How a Southern Woman Became the Namesake of a Global Blood Line
Origins of Grace and Intellect
Ray Weil — affectionately known as Ms. Ray, was born on August 22, 1923, in Lafayette, Louisiana. While studying at Southwestern Louisiana Institute (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), she served as city editor for The Daily Advertiser, demonstrating early leadership and intellectual rigor.
In 1946, she married Major Simon Weil of Livonia, Louisiana. Together they built their home, raised three children, and became pillars of their parish community.
Educator, Humanitarian, and Pioneer
Ms. Ray was the first special-education teacher in Pointe Coupee Parish, teaching at Livonia High School. Her compassion extended beyond the classroom, she personally guided her Catholic students through their First Communion, often guiding them to the altar.
In 1975, she was appointed State Chairman of the American Cancer Society’s Louisiana Division, where she led statewide campaigns, organized major fundraising events, and represented Louisiana at national assemblies alongside public figures supporting cancer research and prevention.
Community Leadership and Southern Grace
Ms. Ray’s impact in Livonia extended through cultural and educational initiatives. She encouraged school bands, dance classes, and organized extracurricular programs that enriched the lives of local youth.
Her reputation for hospitality was legendary. Visitors from across the nation and abroad were welcomed into her home with authentic southern warmth and dignity. To all who met her, she embodied intellect, balanced by grace.
Ms. passed away in 2020, two months before her 97th birthday. Leaving behind a century-long legacy of education, charity, and leadership.
From “Mr. Ray” to “X-Ray”: The Birth of a Global Bloodline
Among her admirers was Sam Harris of 3H Ranch, Henderson, Texas. Deeply respecting her character, Harris named one of his most promising Red Brahman females +Miss 3H 290, “Ms. Ray”. Indecently, her first calf was +Mr. 3H X-Ray 825, who inherited her name and carried it into Brahman history.
When Sam Harris dispersed his herd, Barry Bryant, a dedicated cattleman and the father of Dr. Kevin M. Bryant purchased +Mr. 3H X-Ray 825. That decision unknowingly inaugurated one of the most influential dynasties in Red Brahman breeding history: “The Ray Line”, or “The X-Ray Line”.
Global Recognition and Expansion
The international prominence of the “Ray Line” of Red Brahmans accelerated when Dinah Weil (Mrs. Ray’s daughter) and Larry Janssen of HK Ranch acquired a half interest in +Mr. 3H X-Ray 825. With strategic partnering with, Calixto García-Velez (Nicaragua) and Vladimir Vanoy (Colombia) the stage was set. The “Ray Line” would be unstoppable. This stewardship established the “The Ray Line” as a global benchmark for structural balance, maternal performance, and classic Red Brahman characteristics.
Today, tens of thousands of Red Brahmans worldwide trace their lineage to +Mr. 3H X-Ray 825, each reflecting the refinement and substance that defined Ms. Ray herself.
The Enduring Standard: “Ray Approved”
The story of Ms. Ray Weil transcends the boundaries of cattle breeding. Her name became synonymous with integrity, refinement, and grace. The same traits Red Brahman breeders continue to seek in “Ray-Approved” cattle.
Her influence endures not only through her descendants, but through a global community of breeders. Those who value the balance of strength, gentleness, and elegance embodied in the “Ray Approved” line of true American Red Brahmans.
To be “Ray Approved,” is to honor a woman whose intellect, compassion, and steadiness in leadership helped define excellence in life and in Red Brahmans.
