Ray was born June 4, 1932, the last of 10 children.

On July 21, 1956 Ray married Virginia Panek in Lilly.

He and Virginia moved to Ohio where their 3 children were born.

Their first child, Mary Beth was born May 9, 1957.

Their second child, Gregory Paul was born December 5, 1959.

Their third child, Paula was born October 27, 1964