PORTLAND — The Rev. Walter S. Ray Jr., 79, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2013, from congestive heart failure (CHF).

He was born in Auburn on May 10, 1934, the son of Walter and Lena Ray.

For the past 26 years, Rev. Ray has been the pastor of the Webbs Mills Free Baptist Church in Casco, where he currently served at his passing. He also taught in the Portland public school system for 26 years.

Rev. Ray painted houses during the summer months and years ago worked at the A&P Bakery. He authored and published five books with the latest one being, God’s Plan For Our Age, which is available for purchase online or via the Ray family.

In 1997, his wife Doris predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his grandson.

He is survived by his five children, David, Sam, Olive, Becky and Ruthann; 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours were held on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, followed by a memorial service all at the Webbs Mills Free Baptist Church in Casco. On Monday, committal was held at 11 a.m. at Blanchard Cemetery, Winn Road, Falmouth. Online condolences may be left for the family at hallfuneralhomeinc.com

In lieu of flowers, to further the work for his Lord, memorial donations may be made to: The Webbs Mills Free Baptist Church, 17 Webbs Mills Rd., P.O. Box 524 Casco, ME 04015.