Dallas, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne, a well-known social figure in Dallas, passed away after a brief illness. Known for co-founding the Dallas Cattle Baron’s Ball, an influential charity event, she contributed significantly to cancer research fundraising. Celebrating her 78th birthday just prior to her passing, Wynne was a beloved community member known for her generosity and vibrant personality. Her legacy includes a substantial impact on local philanthropy and community events.
Dallas — Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne, a prominent Dallas social icon, passed away on Saturday after a brief illness. She celebrated her 78th birthday on Friday, October 17. Jacque died at approximately 2 p.m. at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital ICU, surrounded by friends.
Immediate details
Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne was best known in Dallas for her social presence and for co-founding a major annual charity event. She was a co-founder of the annual Dallas Cattle Baron’s Ball, taking place this year on October 25. The Cattle Baron’s Ball has raised over $105 million for cancer research since its inception in 1974, and the event has become one of the top fundraisers for cancer research globally.
How the Cattle Baron’s Ball began
The ball was conceived out of Jacque’s love for ranches, horses, and Texas culture, and she worked with Patti Hunt to develop the first event after a separate charity effort produced a low yield. The inaugural Cattle Baron’s Ball gathered 500 guests who were personally invited by Jacque and her husband and was hosted at the 4,820-acre Star Brand Ranch in Kaufman, Texas, a family property with historical significance dating back to the Republic of Texas. Early attendees included local civic leaders and entertainers who helped give the event broad appeal. The event’s format was designed to attract men by eliminating a strict black-tie dress code and adding auction items and experiences tailored to their interests; for the first Cattle Baron’s Ball, the Stetson Company provided hats for men who donated at a higher ticket price.
Personal background and community role
Jacque hailed from Corpus Christi, attended Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, and taught elementary school at University Park Elementary. She met her husband, Toddie Lee Wynne, Jr., at the school where she taught. Following her marriage she was active in a Park Cities charity and participated in civic life.
After the death of her husband in 1982, Jacque entered real estate and remained a visible community figure. After her husband’s passing in 1982, Jacque became a real estate agent at Allie Beth Allman & Associates. Her subsequent career in real estate continued her longtime pattern of connecting people and supporting local causes.
Style and legacy
Jacque was widely remembered for her long black hair, gregarious personality, and ability to make people from different backgrounds feel welcome. Her home reflected a personal style that mixed elegance with rustic Texas influences, and she maintained a focus on family photos, animal prints, and comfortable luxury. Friends and acquaintances remember her for a generous spirit, a hearty laugh, and a lasting impact on Dallas civic and charitable life.
Event impact and continuing tradition
The Cattle Baron’s Ball, which Jacque helped launch, continues to play a major role in local philanthropy. Since 1974 the event has raised more than $105 million for cancer research, establishing a record of support that sustains medical and research programs. This year’s event on October 25 proceeds from fundraising activities will continue that tradition.
Additional facts
- Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne celebrated her 78th birthday on Friday, October 17.
- Jacque died at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital ICU at approximately 2 p.m., surrounded by friends.
- The first Cattle Baron’s Ball was held at the Star Brand Ranch in Kaufman, Texas, and drew 500 invited guests.
- Notable early attendees included Dallas civic leaders and entertainers who contributed to the event’s early profile.
- Toddie Lee Wynne Jr. was a developer involved with projects including the Plaza of the Americas hotel in Dallas.
FAQ
When did Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne pass away?
Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne, a prominent Dallas social icon, passed away on Saturday after a brief illness.
How old was Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne?
She celebrated her 78th birthday on Friday, October 17.
Where did Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne die?
Jacque died at approximately 2 p.m. at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital ICU, surrounded by friends.
What major event did Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne co-found?
She was a co-founder of the annual Dallas Cattle Baron’s Ball, taking place this year on October 25.
How much has the Cattle Baron’s Ball raised for cancer research?
The Cattle Baron’s Ball has raised over $105 million for cancer research since its inception in 1974.
Where was Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne from and what was her early career?
Jacque hailed from Corpus Christi, attended Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, and taught elementary school at University Park Elementary.
Where did Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne meet her husband?
She met her husband, Toddie Lee Wynne, Jr., at the school where she taught.
What did Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne do after her husband’s death?
After her husband’s passing in 1982, Jacque became a real estate agent at Allie Beth Allman & Associates.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Dallas |
| Date of birth / Age | Celebrated 78th birthday on Friday, October 17 |
| Time and place of death | Approximately 2 p.m. at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital ICU, surrounded by friends |
| Major event co-founded | Dallas Cattle Baron’s Ball, taking place this year on October 25 |
| Funds raised by event | Over $105 million for cancer research since its inception in 1974 |
| Origin | Hailed from Corpus Christi; attended SMU; taught at University Park Elementary |
| Post-1982 career | Became a real estate agent at Allie Beth Allman & Associates |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Candy’s Dirt: Jacque Wynne, Beloved Co-Founder of Cattle Barons Ball Dies at 78
- People Newspapers: Cattle Barons Underwriting Party Spurs Anticipation
- Wikipedia: Cattle Baron’s Ball
- Google Search: Jacquelyn Ryan Wynne
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer Research
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
