Douglas Kent Ray

Douglas Kent Ray passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025, from complications of bladder cancer. He was born March 22, 1944 in Zanesville, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, John G. Ray and Regina Ray, and sister, Judy Galbreath. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ellen; his brother, Reg (Donna) and many nieces and nephews who loved their Uncle Doug.

Doug served honorably in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. Stationed at Homestead AFB, Florida, and trained on the HAWK missile battery.

Doug loved New Mexico; he and Ellen moved here in 1979 and never left. He was employed at Lee Galles Oldsmobile for 10 years and was a 2-time GM Master Technician. A career change happened when Doug went to work for the City of Albuquerque Vehicle Pollution division and then Environmental Health Department. He studied at UNM while working full time and obtained his bachelor's degree in 1998. After retirement in 2010, Doug ventured on a lifelong dream to drive the Al-Can highway to Alaska.

Doug amassed a world-class, 40-year collection of Native American fetishes. He and Ellen loved to drive the dirt roads with their many dogs over the years. Doug started a cactus garden and appreciated the fleeting cactus blossoms. He was a docent at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and enjoyed engaging with guests or the many groups of school kids who toured the museum.

A special thanks to all his buddies who Doug spent many Saturdays with at the shooting range. He learned to be a pretty good shot.

New Mexico's dark skies fostered a love of amateur astronomy. Doug had several telescopes and spent many nights observing the heavens. Now Doug is among the stars! A memorial party for Doug will be later this year.