Obituary of Jay John Ray

Jay John Ray, 69, devoted father and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 5th, 2024.

Jay was born in Waterville, Maine on June 30th, 1954, to Eugene Papolas and Irene Ray. Most of his childhood was spent in Waterville before moving to Augusta. He attended Cony High School where he met the love of his life, Debra (Debbie) Reny.

Although he enjoyed playing various sports as a child, it wasn’t until he was a teenager that he realized his passion for weightlifting. This passion led to Jay’s Gym, located on Water Street in Augusta. It was open for 10 years, closing in the early 90’s.

Jay was deeply dedicated to his work in property management. With a strong work ethic, his commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and clients alike. He was known for his reliability, his willingness to go above and beyond to get the job done, and his genuine care for the well-being of the people he served.

In the late 80’s, he was actively involved in local politics, serving Ward 4 on the Augusta City Council. He possessed a fervent commitment to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. Jay held a special place in his heart for the most important role of all: Father & Pépère. To him, there was no greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren.

Jay is survived by his four children, Nikolas and wife, Kimberly Ray, Elese and husband, Dan Poirier, Ellen and husband, Cory Barnett, Emily and husband, Eben Gilman and his eight grandchildren, Lucy, Kaia, Cy, Grayson, Kora, Grace, Alanna and Adelynn.

Jay is predeceased by his wife, Debbie, his father, Eugene, his mother, Irene, and his beloved rottweiler, BoBo.

Per Jay’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. In lieu of flowers, those who desire may make donations to honor his behalf to the Howell House at 44 Sewall Street in Augusta, Maine. The Howell House is a senior living residence where Jay resided for the past year, enjoying the sense of community and lunchtime banter.