| Obituary from Wilson Funeral Home |
Donald Philip Ray Sr. age 78, went to be with the Lord Jesus, peacefully at his home, surrounded by family and loved ones on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Don was born in Lewiston, Maine and attended schools in Gray and New Gloucester. He grew up in a large family full of love where he learned to value those important bonds. He was the youngest sibling and was known to raise a little Cain with his nieces and nephews. He proudly supported his family through hard work as a general contractor, carpenter and a gifted musician. He performed as a guitarist and amazing lead vocalist with Country Rhythm Kings (and Queen), Nashville Express, and family and friends band Thunder Bridge. In 1976 he recorded the Bicentennial anthem “And The People Said Amen”.
His life was built on a foundation of faith in the Lord as a long-standing member of Eastgate Fellowship in New Gloucester, his unbreakable bond to his beloved wife Mary, strong family values, hard work, gratitude, kindness, unconditional love, and a passion for music. He was generous in sharing his gift of music with his family and friends and passed on this precious gift to his children and grandchildren. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his extended family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. He had a lasting and profound impact on many of his extended family.
He is predeceased by his grandmother Annette Walker, his parents, Oren Eugene Ray and Edith Jane Ray and siblings, George, Gail, Dellbert, Leanora, Melcon, Dolly, and Joan.
He leaves behind his cherished wife of 60 years, Mary Ray of Mechanic Falls, his special niece-sister, Gail White, his daughters Noni Robinson and husband Jeff Robinson, Heidi Seavey, his son Don Ray Jr. and wife, Liz Ray, his beloved grandchildren, John Ray and Celia Robinson, Britney and Jeffery Miller, Elle Robinson, Courtney Seavey, Wyatt and Josie Ray, 6 great grandchildren., special friend Todd Seavey, and many special nieces and nephews.
The family shares heartfelt gratitude with Pastor Glenn and Kathy of Eastgate Fellowship and his special nieces, Vickie, Carolyn. Pam, Lisa.
A graveside burial will be held at Upper Gloucester Cemetery on Bald Hill in New Gloucester on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM and will be followed by a nearby gathering. Details for the gathering will be shared at the cemetery.
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