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Raymond G. Edwards

Date of Death: March 26, 2022

Date of Birth: February 1, 1949

Biography:

Raymond Graczyk Edwards was born on February 1, 1949 in Revere Massachusetts to Irene and Edward
Terchiak. During Ray's formative elementary years, he attended Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Memorial School
in Hyde Park, Boston where he served as an altar boy and learned to appreciate classical music. Later he
moved to Maine where he graduated from Williams High School in 1967 and then enlisted in the Air
Force where he served as a munitions expert in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Returning to Maine,
he enrolled at The University of Maine but later transferred to The University of Rhode Island and
graduated as a communications major in 1977. Years later after being an active member of The United
Church of Christ, Ray received a Master of Divinity degree at Vanderbilt University in 2000.

Ray's strong interest in media production resulted in numerous work experiences. Initially, he helped
produce television programs at Boston University. At WSBETV in New Hampshire, he won a regional
Emmy for his documentary "Wake of 1938."ln Saudi Arabia he filmed surgeries for two years.

Eventually, Connecticut's Public Radio allowed Ray to host and produce a classical music program. At the
High Street Congregational Church where Ray also served as a deacon and choir member, he recorded
sermons and selected slides to accompany recorded music on zoom during the pandemic.

When Ray moved to Maine, he worked in customer service where he appreciated helping people with
their inquiries and problems. He was employed by Xerox Commercial Solutions LLC and later TD Bank
where he remained for several years. He enjoyed working with his teams and was delighted when
customers commented on his radio voice.

Joining the Mason's Tranquil Lodge in Auburn, Ray devoted much of his free time ascending his rank and
becoming Worshipful Master. Admiring and respecting the integrity and character of his Brothers, Ray
remained close friends with his Brothers for several years. During his cancer treatment, he regretted
missing activities at the Masonic Lodge.

Certainly Ray's interests during more carefree times were eclectic. He loved playing with his computer,
recording music, and studying astronomy. His musical interests included classical, folk, rock, and jazz.
"Big Bang Theory" reruns always proved diverting, but Ray also enjoyed movies, particularly with Tom
Hanks and Robert Redford. With his wife, Deborah, he enjoyed trips to New York where they attended
jazz concerts and the theatre. During the summer, they found Ogonquit, Camden and Boothbay Harbor
always relaxing places to visit. Motor boat trips with friends Ellen and Glen also delighted him.

Ray leaves many good friends and family members, including his beloved wife and several stepchildren;
his sister, Linda Baker and her sons, Bart and Tony; his siblings, Robert Terchiak, Irene Rather, and
Richard Szarythe; and his dear friends, Ellen and Glen Ballou and Steven Sylvester. Ray was also formerly
married to Pamela Degarmo and Laura McDaniel.

A funeral service will be held at Auburn's High Street Congregational Church at 11:00 AM on April 9th, 2022. In lieu of flowers, one may contribute to The American Cancer Society or the food bank at High Street Congregational Church.