Gene Wells Ray, born in Murray, Kentucky, in 1938, passed away at his home in Rancho Santa Fe on July 28th, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. Throughout his life, Gene touched the hearts of those around him and will be remembered for his warmth, love of family, inspiring leadership, unparalleled intellect, and drive to innovate. Gene had the ability to light up a room and connect with people in meaningful ways.

Gene is survived by his wife, Taffin Ray; his brother, Bobby Ray; his children Donald Dickerson, Kathy Pratt, and Nancy Solomon; his son-in-law Josh Solomon; and his grandchildren Spencer and Allison Pratt, Melissa, Collin, and Jason Dickerson, and Elle, Max, Joe, and Mia Solomon.

Gene appreciated his home town of Murray, Kentucky where he learned the art of hardwork on the family's tobacco farm and he reflected often on the memories of his aunts, uncles and cousins. It was in Murray that Gene's love of academics flourished. He attended Murray State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. He continued at the University of Tennessee, earning a Master of Science in Physics, and a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics. However, his loyalty was always to Murray State and the Murry State Racers where he enjoyed supporting many programs, including the university's basketball program and rarely missed watching their games.

Professionally, Gene had a distinguished career in technology, defense, and government relations. Most notably he co-founded The Titan Corporation in 1981, which was headquartered in San Diego and grew to employ over 15,000 people. Titan was a leading provider of comprehensive information and communications products, solutions and services for the Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and other federal government customers. Titan also created, built and launched several commercial, technology based companies.

Prior to Titan, Gene held senior positions at Science Applications International Corporation, Inc. He also served in various capacities within the U.S. Air Force, including Chief, Strategic Division, and Senior Appointee on the staff of the Chief of Staff. Additionally, Gene contributed to weapon system analysis programs and specialized in nuclear survivability during his time with the Aerospace Corporation.

After selling the Titan Corporation in 2005, Gene founded GMT Ventures, a private equity fund that invested in early-stage companies, while also serving on many boards. Gene was a prominent figure and mentor in the business community of San Diego, admired for his fostering of innovation, his commitment to national security solutions and for his love of nation. His work will impact the security of our country for generations to come.

As we mourn the loss of Gene Wells Ray, let us also celebrate the precious moments and important life lessons he leaves with us. Gene lived life to the fullest and inspired all of us to do the same. He will forever be remembered for the lasting impact he had on the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him.

A memorial for friends and family will be held August 19th, at 4:00 pm at the Ray family home. Details and RSVP at https://bit.ly/genewray.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune from Aug. 6 to Aug. 13, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Gene Ray

8 Entries

Amine Doukkali

Planted Trees

Ron Kunz

August 20, 2023

Dear Family - I knew Gene both through Titan and I was lucky enough to work closely with him at Decision Sciences. He had extraordinary great intellect, outstanding leadership skills and most importantly a warm heart. We will miss him. May our dear Father in Heaven bless you, his family, at this tender time! Love, Ron Kunz

Heartfelt Condolences Arrangement- BASKET INCLUDED

Mike Goll

Sent Flowers

Mary

August 16, 2023

I met Gene through an investment group which helped to fund start ups. Gene was kind, patient and willing to share his knowledge with entrepreneurs. He was a gentleman and an inspiration to many people. Gene will be deeply missed.

Dr Allan Salzberg

Sent Flowers

Arthur Fine

August 10, 2023

I still remember when as a result of Bob Hanisee´s recommendation Gene interviewed me to act as counsel for Titan in connection with its alleged violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. He explained to me that the problem all arose out of activity in a country no one ever heard of no less visited - Benin. I responded I not only heard of Benin, knew where it was located, but had visited there spending some significant time in the country. He couldn´t believe any one in his right mind could voluntarily choose to spend time in Benin, but that was probably the kind of legal counsel Titan needed. In the end that led to me finding a long lost memo Gene wrote of a conversation he had with a U.S. Attorney concerning the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and Gene´s intent to ensure that Titan never violated the Act. The conversation was with the same U.S. Attorney who was accusing Gene of never caring whether his company violated the Act and was threatening criminal prosecution of Gene. It was Gene´s attention to detail by way of writing the forgotten memo that ended any such threat. Gene was a true leader ensuring that Titan acted appropriately under the law.

In memory of a true friend.
Arthur Fine

Maggi Crowell

Planted Trees

Cecilia

August 7, 2023

I had the pleasure of knowing Gene socially as well as through his beautiful family where I was privy to his kindness, his dedication and his humor. I was always impressed by his humility. RIP Gene. My condolences to Taffen and his entire family

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