United Indian Nations of Oklahoma ‘shocked and saddened’ at passing of Jim Gray

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Jim Gray on his first day as Principal Chief of the Osage Nation in July 2002. Gray served two terms as the highest executive leader of his tribe, headquartered in northeastern Oklahoma. Courtesy photo

UINO Chairperson Ben Barnes shares condolences over the sudden loss of former Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray

Friday, February 13, 2026

Indianz.Com

The following is the text of a February 13, 2026, statement from Ben Barnes, Chairperson of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, on the passing of Jim Gray.

“United Indian Nations of Oklahoma is shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of our dear friend and brother, former Osage Nation Principal Chief Jim Gray. Jim served as Osage Nation Principal Chief from 2002 to 2010, ushering in a new era of self-governance for the Osage Nation. His contributions to the Osage Nation and all of Indian Country are immeasurable.

“Jim’s visionary leadership in modernizing the Osage Nation’s government by ratifying its first constitution and securing equal voting rights for every member became a model for tribes across the country striving for true self-determination. He was a brilliant example to many nations that endeavor to take up the challenge of modernizing tribal government, while continuing to reflect their own cultural values in the effort.

“Jim’s achievements in Indian Country have left a profound impact. He co-owned and published the Native American Times, a trailblazing publication that championed independence, transparency and accountability in Indian Country. He previously served as executive director of the Native American Contractors Association (NACA) and helped found the Tribal Energy Consortium. Jim’s tireless decades of service also extended to numerous boards throughout Indian Country, including the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), the Flower Hill Institute, and the Council of Energy Resource Tribes (CERT), where he served as chairman.

“But Jim’s most prized title was that of family man. He came from a large, traditional Osage family where he was the youngest of seven children. He later became a father to seven children and was a proud grandfather to seven. He was also the beloved younger brother of UINO’s Executive Director, Margo Gray, and leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many dear friends. Services are currently pending.

“On behalf of UINO, our members, and all of Indian Country, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Gray family and share in this profound loss.”

– Ben Barnes, UINO Chairperson and Chief of the Shawnee Nation.