RAY, Benjamin Of Dedham, MA, passed away on October 16, 2022 at the age of 96. Born September 18, 1926 in Loch Gully, West Virginia, he grew up in Detroit, Michigan. After high school he served in the Army during World War II, and on his return earned a B.S. from the Michigan College of Mining and Technology in Sault Ste Marie, MI, which made a lasting impression on him for the snow, extreme cold and predominance of rutabagas in the cafeteria. After working briefly in industry he turned to education, earning an M.S. from Michigan State, and devoting the rest of his career to education as a high school teacher of science, a coach and an administrator (his least favorite job) in Livonia, MI. After retiring and moving to Dedham in 1996 to be near family he spent many hours volunteering at the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Dedham Historical Society, enjoying Boston Symphony performances, reading and studying history.
He is survived by his two sons, Douglas Ray (and his wife Becky) of Richland, WA, Jim Ray (and his wife Natalie Jensen) of Dedham, MA; his grandchildren Tamarack O’Donnell, Chaney Ray, Julia Ray and Nicholas Ray and great grandchildren Stella Stokes, Avery O’Donnell and Ethan O’Donnell. He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Mary Frances (Dreese), and his siblings Manuel, Joe and Julia.
No services are planned at this time.