It is with profound sadness that the family of Ray Melvin Gillies announce his passing on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at his home in Roachville, NB, with his loving wife Patti by his side. Ray was born in Belleisle Creek, NB, on July 26, 1943, son of the late Melvin and Marguerite (Storr) Gillies.

Ray will be dearly remembered by his devoted wife Patti (Patricia Horton) Gillies; son Tim (Amy) Gillies, Stayner, ON; daughter Nicole (Trevis) Lucas, Vernon, BC; stepdaughter, Kimberly Secord, Toronto, ON; step son-in-law Kal Labidi, Toronto, ON; stepson Peter Secord, Bayfield, ON; grandchildren Colby, Amber, Eric, Anna, Laura, Naima, Hana and Sara; brother Ross Gillies, Rothesay, NB; sister Lynn Browne Darling's Island, NB; sister-in-law, Hilda Gillies, Belleisle Creek, NB; brother-in-law, Rick (Chick) Horton, Sussex Corner, NB; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, brother Myles Gillies; sister-in-law Beth Gillies; and brother-in-law Grant Horton.

Ray had many interests and was not one to sit still for long. He played hockey with the Sussex Rangers for several years and had great fun hosting annual hockey parties for the team long after he stopped playing.

His love of sports, playing cards and the great outdoors were life-long loves. Golfing and curling, fishing trips with friends, walking local trail systems with his family, and tending to his vegetable garden were activities he held dear.

Ray dedicated 32 years of service to NB Power as a skilled and respected linesman. It was a career that gave him great satisfaction in helping others. Without complaint or hesitation, Ray braved some of the most challenging weather conditions Mother Nature served up and restored heat and hydro to families in need.

Ray loved sharing stories of his childhood growing up on the family farm. Driving through the Belleisle countryside with Patti was a favourite past-time and something they did often. Those many hours on old country roads became cherished history lessons of the people, places and events that shaped his life.

Ray’s generosity extended to all aspects of his life. Helping neighbours, volunteering in the community and offering a one-stop shop to anyone who needed to borrow a tool or tractor, Ray was the one to call. He gave of his time, his resources and his kindness every day of his life.

Above all, Ray will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, caring brother and uncle. He was an exceptionally kind and gentle man whose quiet strength and compassion for others touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His steady presence and willingness to help others will be something his friends and family will always remember.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many healthcare professionals who cared for Ray in recent months. Special thanks to Dr. Daniel Pillay and Misty, as well as the extramural nurses whose compassion, professionalism and kindness brought comfort to Ray and Pat at every visit. Their support will never be forgotten.

Dear friends Gary and Donna Abell, Harry and Shirley Tennant, Gerry and Marg Macdonald were incredibly kind in giving of their time to ensure the lawns got mowed, the flower beds maintained and for their regular visits that meant so much to Ray.

The family also wishes to express their deepest appreciation to Denise Barton whose generosity and unwavering support for Ray and his family went far beyond expectation and made an immeasurable difference during a very difficult time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex, NB, (506) 433-1176. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 28 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, July 29 at 11 a.m. from the Wallace Community Chapel.

Donations in memory of Ray may be made to Union Cemetery in Belleisle Creek or a charity of the donor's choice. Personal condolences to the family may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com.