Donald Edward Ray, 74, of Sagaponack, NY, passed away Tuesday, December 18, 2012, after a heart attack in his home.
He was born in Chapel Hill, NC. Don graduated from Stetson University and received a degree in Physical Education.
Don played soccer and football, and coached football in Asheville, NC at David Miller Middle School and Owen School in Black Mountain, NC, after working for the UNC football team while in high school. He worked a number of years at Camp Rockmont, including as Director. Don worked for many years in the garment industry in New York, Atlanta and Boston. He then worked in restaurant management in New York, Charlotte and Boulder – fine dining was a passion. He spent the last 12 years as an Estate Manager in NYC and the Hamptons.
He is survived by his son, Niles Damon Ray, Niles’ wife Amie, and their son Jordan, all of New York, NY.

Don is remembered by a large number of campers and staff as a high energy, motivational leader at camp. His outstanding career at Rockmont was foreshadowed by his receiving the “Best Camper” award at Camp Ridgecrest in the mid 1950’s. Don’s dynamic personality, high energy, always ready with a good word for everyone he met, was reflected at an early age with his given Little Chief name: “Buzzing Bee”. In the summer of 1956, with the founding of Camp Rockmont, Don, along with many Ridgecrest campers and staff, moved their enthusiasm for summer camping across the valley. As one of the first Rockmont staffers, Don brought his energy and upbeat viewpoint to every aspect of camp life. His attitude was contagious among the campers and staff. This talent, recognized and nurtured in the summers, led Don into his “winter career” of coaching. Don was one of the longest serving staff members at Rockmont and will be remembered for his significant contribution to summer camping.

Dan McFatter

Rockmont 1956-1970

I met Don Ray in the spring of 1967. Previously, Don was a football coach at Owen High School and currently the Director of Rockmont. He needed a few low skilled individuals who could be trained to use a rake, pick up sticks and swing a sling blade (before the days of weed eaters). I was a sophomore in the local high school and thought I just needed a job.

That is how I ended up at Rockmont for ten years. I recall Don Ray as gracious and patient with immature teenagers and someone we looked up to. Don introduced me to the incredible community of Rockmont men and women who have had such an impact on my life. Thanks Don.

Paul Gwaltney

Rockmont 1967-1976