Obituary of Arthur Charles Ray

Arthur Charles Ray, 80, of Sidney passed away peacefully at home on March 12, 2024 after a long illness. Born in Brunswick, Maine on June 30, 1943, he attended Waterville schools and enjoyed activities at the Boys’ Club where his grandfather, Andrew Armstrong, had been custodian and unofficial mentor. Arthur graduated from Waterville High School in 1961. In 1966 he graduated from the University of Maine, Orono with a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering. Arthur was a career employee of Central Maine Power Company. During that time, he became a Professional Engineer and finished his career as the Manager of Distribution Engineering.

Art, as he was known, had many and varied interests. He was a life-long learner and a true historian. Genealogy was a particular interest, and he kept meticulous family records. Maine history was another passion. Art presented historical programs at libraries, historical societies, retirement communities, and at UMA Senior College. As a Board Member of UMA Senior College, he helped initiate an annual film series and the Brown Bag Lunch programs. Art loved to ski and was a Sugarloaf season pass holder for many years. He was gifted in stained glass art and oil painting. Art loved cats and enjoyed music and the daily crossword puzzle. He had an independent spirit and will be truly missed by his family and those who knew him.

Arthur was pre-deceased by his parents, Clarence Ray and Louise (Armstrong) Ray of Waterville and his sister-in-law, Irene Ray of Cocoa Beach, FL. He is survived by brother Herbert Ray of Cocoa Beach, FL, and twin brother Robert Ray and his wife Joyce of Dunbarton, NH. Art was a devoted “Uncle Art” to nieces Jennifer Johnson (husband Christopher); Heather Radl (husband Andrew); and Rebecca Brooks (husband Timothy); and nephew Jay Ray. Art leaves behind special friend Mary Read, his beloved cat companion named Wiley, grandnieces, grandnephews, and many cousins and friends.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Waterville. Remembrance gifts may be sent to the Alfond Youth Center, 126 North Street, Waterville, Maine, in Art’s memory.