Age 97, of Country Harbour passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital, Sherbrooke, surrounded by family.
Born in Country Harbour on September 20, 1928, he was a son of the late Ernest and Amelia (Price-Keith) Porter.
Ray worked cutting pulp, drove truck, hauling gravel and asphalt for the Department of Highways, where he was known for his strong work ethic and steady dedication.
Ray and his wife Edie ran a Canteen that was “the place to go” for young and old alike.
Ray found his greatest happiness in the outdoors. He loved fishing and could be found heading down the Country Harbour River in his boat or mackerel fishing off the side of a wharf. Boating, camping, and fishing were among the moments he cherished most. He also enjoyed car races and music – especially good old-fashioned Cape Breton music that would set your foot tapping.
Spending time with his older sister, Doris’ fondly known as “Dode”, was one of his greatest joys, a connection he held dear though-out his life.
He will be remembered for his independence and determination. Ray continued to live on his own terms well into his nineties – still driving, four wheeling and travelling the back roads he knew so well. He took pride in his ability to keep going, finding freedom and comfort in the things he enjoyed the most.
Ray is survived by his former spouse, Edie (Alexander), who he shared over 50 years of life and companionship. Though their paths changed over time, they remained close and continued to share a lasting friendship built on many years of memories together.
He will be lovingly remembered as the father of Sharon (Murray) Webber; Clinton (Charlene); Anthony (Mary); Jimmy (Marla); Paula (Ivan); stepson, Mark (Carol) Alexander; stepson-in-law, Wendell Hensbee; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; sister, Doris Langley; and extended family who will carry forward memories in their own way. He will also be fondly remembered by his close friend and companion, Jenny Uloth and telephone friends, Agnes and John Myette, whose companionship meant a great deal to him in his later years.
He was predeceased by granddaughter, Kiera Porter; sister, Elsie (John) Silver (Cyril Ralph); brother-in-law, Lorne Langley; stepdaughter, Charlotte Hensbee, her son, Eddie; half-brothers, Everett (Dorothy) Keith, George (Rita) (Dorothy) Keith; half-sister, Thelma Harris (Danny MacDonald).
A graveside service will take place at a later date in Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery, Country Harbour. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital Society – PO Box 299; Sherbrooke, NS B0J 3C0/ smmhs.donate@gmail.com or Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery.
The family would like to send a special thanks to the staff of St. Mary’s Memorial Hospital for the compassion and care Ray received. Funeral arrangements are under the dignified and compassionate care of G.W. Giffin Funeral Home, 17545 Highway 316, Country Harbour.
