Ray grew up in Auburn, attending schools there and graduating from Edward Little High School. He went on to further his education at the Central Maine General School of Nursing, where he was one of the first two males included in their nursing program.

After receiving his nursing degree, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he was stationed in San Diego, the South Pacific and Philadelphia.  He served for four years before his honorable discharge.

He worked at Maine Medical Center in Portland, where he met his partner, Wayne Abbott, before moving to Boston.  While in Boston, he worked for various hospitals and doctors before settling at Beth Israel Hospital where he worked his way up to director of radiology.

In 1972, he and Wayne purchased a home in Boothbay Harbor. They worked on the home for years before moving full time to Boothbay Harbor in 1983. They loved to travel and take cruises, visiting such places as the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands and many places in Europe. He was an avid collector of ocean liner memorabilia, including prints, plates and glasses.

He was predeceased by his parents.  

He is survived by his partner of 56 years, Wayne Abbott of Boothbay Harbor.

A private graveside service will be held at the Greenlawn Cemetery in Wiscasset. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME. Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.stronghancock.com.