WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) extends its deepest condolences to the family of former Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray and to the entire Osage Nation following his sudden passing.
Chief Gray served as Principal Chief of the Osage Nation from 2002 to 2010, leading during a historic period of transformation and self-determination. His leadership ushered in a new era of governance for the Osage Nation, including the ratification of its first constitution and securing equal voting rights for every Osage citizen. His work became a model for tribal nations across the country seeking to modernize governance while preserving their cultural foundations.
Beyond his tenure as Chief, Gray’s impact spanned Indian Country. He co-owned and published the Native American Times, championing transparency and accountability. He served as executive director of the Native American Contractors Association and helped found the Tribal Energy Consortium. His decades of service included leadership roles with the Native American Rights Fund, the Flower Hill Institute, and the Council of Energy Resource Tribes, where he served as chairman.
Indian Gaming Association Chairman David Z. Bean reflected on Chief Gray’s legacy: “Chief Jim Gray was a true sovereign warrior. He stood firmly for tribal self-governance, economic independence, and the inherent rights of our nations. His leadership did not stop at the borders of the Osage Nation. He worked tirelessly for the advancement of all Indian Country.”
Chairman Bean continued, “We will honor Chief Gray by continuing the work. We will defend tribal sovereignty, promote economic self-sufficiency, and stand united as tribal nations. His legacy reminds us that our responsibility is to protect what our ancestors fought for and to ensure opportunity for the next generation.”
Chief Gray’s life of service was grounded not only in leadership, but in family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, deeply rooted in his Osage heritage.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Andrew and Louis Gray; and his sisters, Mary BigHorse and Gina Gray.
He is survived by his wife, Olivia “Libbi” Gray, of the home; his sons, Henry Gray of Tulsa and James Gray of Norman; his daughters, Naomi Gray of Durango, Colorado; Annette “Nettie” Gray of the home; Mary Hammer of Skiatook; Sarah Ramirez-Hernandez of Tulsa; and Olivia “Oli” Ramirez of Skiatook; his granddaughters, Kenedi Hammer, Brynli Hammer, Bravery Hammer, Mina Hernandez, Isabel Hernandez, Honor Hammer, and Victoria Hernandez; and a grandchild expected in September. He is also survived by his sisters, Jacqueline Butler and Margo Gray, as well as many nieces and nephews.
On behalf of the Indian Gaming Association, its Board of Directors, member tribes, and partners across the tribal government gaming industry, Chairman Bean extended heartfelt sympathies to the Gray family and the Osage Nation during this time of profound loss.
