Gary "Coach" Wayne Ray

Gary “Coach” Wayne Ray, 76, of Oak Hill, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones following a short illness.

Born on June 18, 1949, in Charleston, West Virginia, Gary was the son of Harry Webster Ray and Myrtle Cora Ray. He grew up in Winfield, where he excelled as a General, lettering in football and wrestling. He went on to attend Glenville State College, majoring in education. There he was a four-year starter in football for the Pioneers and earned Second Team WVIAC All-Conference honors during his junior year. It was at Glenville that he met his wife, Cindy, with whom he shared 55 loving years of marriage. He was also an active member of Theta Xi Fraternity.

Gary began his distinguished career in education in 1971 at Oak Hill High School as a coach and teacher. He advanced through the ranks, serving as Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and eventually Principal until 1997. From 1997 to 2001, he served as Director of Schools for the Fayette County Board of Education. He then became Assistant Executive Director of the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission from 2001 to 2007, before serving as Executive Director from 2007 to 2016. A dedicated leader in high school athletics, Gary served on numerous national boards and committees. One of his proudest achievements was co-founding the West Virginia Athletic Directors Association with his good friend Harold Erwin, and he remained actively involved with the organization throughout his life.

At the time of his passing, Gary continued to serve as Vice-President of the Fayette County Board of Education, always advocating for the best possible education for every student. A loyal and faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oak Hill for more than 50 years, he touched countless lives through his work, his leadership, and his genuine care for others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Myrtle, and his siblings, Jim Johnson, Manuel Ray, Harry “Bub” Ray Jr., and Cynthia Frazier.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Cindy Ray; his children, Amy Bloomfield (Mark) and Adam Ray (Amanda); and his cherished grandchildren, Derek Bloomfield, Nathan Bloomfield, and Kendall Bloomfield. He will also be deeply missed by his sisters-in-law, Sue Ray, Judy Gunter (George Grayiel), and Lisa Sargent, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.