Obituary of David Thomas Ray
David Thomas Ray, age 84, passed away peacefully at home on Thanksgiving Day with his family at his side. He was born on November 20, 1933 in Woburn, MA. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Suzette Ray and Brothers William and Donald Ray. David attended public school in Everett, MA and spent his childhood competing in sports and dreaming in movie houses. He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the United States Navy on the USS Preston.
David was the beloved husband of 63 years to Shirley Ann Ray (Franson), David met his wife in true romantic fashion while hitchhiking on military leave. David and Shirley enjoyed traveling together, tending to their garden, and spending time with friends and family. He was an avid baseball and horse racing fan, boasting a passionate and lively spirit that never lost touch with youth. David loved nostalgia. His sentimental longing for the past, particularly through old movies, jazz music, entertainers, and sports figures, provided his children and grandchildren an appreciation of life in simpler times.
Devoted father of: David Ray of Manchester, NH; Steven Ray and wife Paula of Eagle River, AK; Lisa Casey and husband Douglas of Nashua, NH. Most loving Papa of: Andrew and Daniel Casey; Joshua, Victoria, and Samantha Ray.
After retiring from Raytheon in 1994, David spent senior life exploring an affinity for his ancestral homeland of Ireland (taking annual trips with son David) whilst being an active presence in the lives of his grandchildren. Unanimously regarded as a selfless soul, David’s kin was the center of his life and his legacy celebrates strength in kindness. May his memory endure his heart’s eternal reflection. In lieu of flowers memorials in David's name maybe made to a charity of your choice.