CANTON – Ronald M. Ray of Canton, beloved husband of Rachel (Gile) Ray, was called home to be with his Lord on Friday, Sept. 30.

Born on Feb. 27, 1932, in Canton, he was the son of the late Charles and Hazel (McIntire) Ray.

After attending Canton High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines, serving his country in Japan from 1953 to 1956.

The family moved to Connecticut in 1956, and lived in Enfield from 1959 to 2000.

He worked as a jet engine test rig technician at Pratt and Whitney for nearly 40 years, retiring in 1994.

The Rays returned to Canton and Ron’s childhood home in 2000.

Mr. Ray was a founding member of Faith Baptist Church in Enfield, Conn., used his handyman skills to assist with four building programs, and served in numerous capacities including deacon, trustee, Sunday school teacher, bus driver, and choir member.

Besides his wife of 52 years, he leaves a son, Malcolm Ray of Canton; four daughters, Melanie Ray and Judith Thoelen of Enfield, Conn., Lisa Russell of Ellington, Conn., and Donna Wilder of Crawfordville, Fla.; a brother, Robert Ray of South Berwick; two sisters, Margaret McMillan of La Canada, Calif., and Mary Pierce of Palm Desert, Calif.; 15 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a brother, Conrad Ray.

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