Ray's story starts on July 16, 1941, when he was born in Macksville Hospital NSW, to parents Richard and Colleen Long. The eldest of 6, followed by Richie, Margaret, Janice, Bruce and Colleen. From young, a talented singer, Ray played rugby league and was Surf Life Saver at Scotts Head. Leaving high school early to help his parents on the farm, he also worked harvesting bananas with his Dad, at Gibards Garage in Macksville, & later at the Midco Meatworks. Along with childhood friend Denis Laverty, at age 22, he left for Newcastle to work on the railway as a Fireman working on steam trains from Broadmeadow to Sydney, Taree and Werris Creek, boarding with the Daly's, who would be like a second family in those early years away from home.

It was back however in Macksville, Christmas 1969, at 28, he would meet the great love of his life and soul-mate, Joyce 'Joye' Edith Miles, on her 21st, home from completing Teachers College. Married 2 years later, building their home in Waratah West, Newcastle. They went on to have 2 beloved daughters Melanie and Jillian. Ray continued to work on the railway, seeing out coal-fired engines as a Fireman, to the move to electric from Newcastle to Sydney. & progressing to Class 4 Engineman. Retiring at 60, after nearly 40 years on the railway, together with Joye he spent time travelling near and far, seeing friends and relatives, loving & living life, revelling in their grandkids Finn & Grace, and turning a dab hand to his much enjoyed Bowls, twice a week. He still loved a Tooheys Old, was a beautiful singer, loved Elvis, & moved on the dance floor like velvet with such silky feet and rhythm....

He was always there - loving, patient and caring -as the day long....no fuss, genuine and true - a gentleman, our rock, the kindest and most beautiful of men. He lived his principles, quietly, steadfastly, never a bad word....and his love beamed from him - his hugs you treasured - solid and heartfelt.

All who met and know him speak of his beautiful nature....loved by family and friends alike.....he will be greatly missed & always remembered....we were so blessed to have him in our lives
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