Raina Garland James, born August 29, 1979 in Denver, Colorado, passed away on February 24, 2024 in Austin, Texas at the age of 44 after living with cancer for more than six years. Raina moved to Texas at a young age and went to St. Pius X High School in Houston where she was very active in Theater Arts and Debate. She then attended the University of Texas at Austin where she studied Philosophy and became involved in the Radio-Television-Film department. She was a proud creative with a relentless work ethic. Raina started out editing PBS documentaries, followed by television news in both Austin and San Antonio, and agency work, before ultimately establishing her own award-winning production company, Big Picture Lab, in 2012. BPL specializes in technology videos for major corporations and content aimed at children and mothers to promote healthy habits for the State of Texas. BPL’s continued success is built on Raina’s incredible ability to connect with people, think strategically, and care deeply about the work produced. Raina loved kids and was happiest working on her various children’s videos and books. Her legacy includes the series “The Adventures of Zobey”, and her books “50 Funny Bunnies”, and “Hope Beach” . These projects demonstrate Raina’s belief in the fundamental importance of encouragement, optimism, and fun. She is survived by her loving husband Doug Williams, mother Barbara Paris, mother and father Susan W and Gray Garland James, brother Davis James (Margaret), father and mother-in-law Terry and Kay Williams, and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other relatives, and many friends and colleagues who all miss her dearly. She had a rare ability to validate, guide, and fully accept those close to her. She showed extraordinary toughness professionally and personally while never losing her sense of humor and belief in the promise of tomorrow. All of Raina’s families love and admire her so much and are grateful for the time she shared with us. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of the groups listed at the end of her book, “Hope Beach”, or the charity of your choice. Raina’s Memorial will be held on the afternoon of April 6th in East Austin. Please email dougtwilliams@gmail.com for more information.