JOHN L. (JAY) BLUDWORTH, II was born to Ruth and John Bludworth October 21, 1914, in Galveston, Texas. He passed away on January 23, 2006, in New Braunfels, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Judith Bludworth, his daughters, Carolyn Herrera, Patsy Bludworth, Julie Rader, Darnell Bludworth, and his sons Leonard Bludworth, John L. Bludworth III, Nathan Bludworth, and Aaron Bludworth. He was co-owner of Bludworth Shipyard in Houston with his three younger brothers, Danny, Martin, and Harold. They sold the family business in 1972. Jay founded "Jay Bludworth, Inc.," a shipyard in Corpus Christi, Texas in 1978. He retired in 1989. Jay was admired for his ability to design and build superb sailboats, canoes, towboats, and barges. He not only designed them and built them; he also raced the sailboats and canoes to many victories. In the 1950's and early 1960's he raced all along the Gulf coast and also went as far north as New York to race his sailboats. In the mid 1960's he started racing canoes. In 1966 Jay at the age of 51, and his brother Harold at the age of 45 entered the "Texas Water Safari." This was an endurance canoe race from San Marcos to Freeport, Texas; They were one of fifteen teams competing in the approximately 375 mile race. Jay and Harold were the only team to finish the race that year. They also won the race in 1967 as well. Jay and Harold were the oldest participants to win the race. Jay also designed and built many commercial marine vessels, some of which he operated himself and many are still operating on the waterways today. Jay also was very proud of the M/V JAY BLUDWORTH, that was named in his honor, June 2002 at a Christening Ceremony that he attended in Houston. He was highly respected in the marine industry and will be missed by many. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday at Klein Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please send donation to the charity of your choice.