Albert Townsend Ray

1930 - 2025

Albert Townsend Ray, beloved husband, father and grandfather, lifelong learner and engaged citizen, passed away surrounded by family, Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 95.

Born in the Bronx on July 3, 1930, Al spent an adventurous and happy childhood as the son of Albert D. Ray and Bernice Townsend Ray, and as the older brother to Charles. His memories included being surrounded by loving and interesting grandparents and uncles at Roads End in Pawling, New York, working at a camp in Alburgh, Vermont, and living abroad for a few years in Aruba, attending school at Lago Community School. Throughout, there was curiosity, friendship, family, and a bit of mischief, setting the stage for a wonderful life.

Al was a graduate of Trinity Pawling School and St. Lawrence University. He served his country in the United States Army, as a Staff Sergeant in the Military Police during the Korean conflict. One of his favorite things to share about his time in the military was that the United States Army was a group of people who came from different backgrounds who protected and respected each other.

His love for people and his conversational and negotiating skills led to an interesting career working for several Bennington companies. He worked for Ben Mont Paper, Warren Wire, Dodge Fibers, Sibley Manufacturing, and the United States Tsubaki Corporation. Throughout his time in business, he enjoyed meeting and working with sales people from all over the world, being a gracious host to representatives from Japan, several of whom became lifelong friends. Meticulous in research, friendly in demeanor, and dogged in getting the best price, he was a professional that salespeople enjoyed.

He was as engaged a citizen as a worker, getting involved in many aspects of his community. He was a Life Member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and proud organizer of their Flag Day events; President of the Southern Vermont Bowling League; dedicated blood donor and volunteer; Bennington Free Library Book Express program volunteer; member of the Bennington Development Review Board; and Trustee and member of the Second Congregational Church in Bennington. Although a proud New Yorker, he loved Vermont, and he attended public meetings, contacted his representatives and senators often enough to be on a first name basis, and was dedicated to keeping his state a healthy and beautiful place to live.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed taking care of a variety of pet cats, feeding the birds, gardening and maintaining his homestead, swimming, cross country skiing, bowling, and listening to classical music or Glenn Miller. He loved snorkeling trips to St. John, was a great tennis player, and followed the Yankees and the Giants with passion. Every Memorial Day, he could be found watching the Indianapolis 500, and he once had the honor of driving his car on the Formula 1 track at Watkins Glen.

Most important to Al was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Lawrence, and his children David Ray (Kathleen) of South Deerfield, MA, Terry Worden (Kim) of Selbyville, DE, Kathy Liebal (Dennis) of Oakdale, CT, and Kelly Ahlfeld (Peter) of Winhall, VT. He was a wonderful grandfather to 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and an uncle to many nieces and nephews. Al was predeceased by his brother Charles Ray and his grandson, Matthew Liebal.

Even at age 95, he kept track of the lives of his family, following up with letters and phone calls related to their careers and interests. He loved a good joke and an April Fool prank. He was someone who made friends wherever he went. Al's kindness, intelligence, curiosity, inclusiveness, and optimism have left a vacancy in our lives and hearts. He was known and remembered by all as a "good guy."

A Celebration of Life service for Albert will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Second Congregational Church in Bennington. If desired, contributions may be made to the Second Chance Animal Shelter or the Second Congregational Church, through the office of E.P. Mahar and Son Funeral Home, 628 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201.