Raymond “Ray” Wright Coty, 83, of Altona, New York, passed away Thursday, September 19th, 2024 at CVPH Medical Center surrounded by his family.

 

Ray, often called Sonny by family, was born on the Coty farm in Saranac, New York on June 6th, 1941 to Raymond and Mary (Wright) Coty, where he enjoyed a happy childhood with his siblings Robert, John, Kenneth, Joan, Gerald and Ernest. Ray graduated from Saranac High School before going on to work various jobs that included Pratt & Whitney in Wallingford, CT, before returning to the north country where he drove trucks for Plattsburgh Distributing and Bay View Dairy. He retired from the Town of Altona Highway Department in 2002.

 

He was united in marriage to Catherine Payant on May 19th, 1962. Together, Ray and Cathy raised their four children while living in Saranac, Wallingford, CT, and for the last 54 years, in Altona, where they enjoyed camping and spending time with friends and family.

 

Everyone who knew Ray, knew how much he loved camping, attending live music events and collecting gas tractors and engines. He boasted about his large collection of vintage Maytag washing machines and enjoyed attending regional events to display his collection for many years. His prized Cub Cadette tractor, complete with original trac kit and patent paperwork inspired many enthusiastic conversations and held pride of place within his collection for many years.

 

Ray is predeceased by his parents; brothers, Robert, John and Gerald; and a beloved son-in-law, Jim Fountain.

 

He is survived by his wife Cathy; children, Michael (Doreen), Ricky (Nancy), Karen and Randy (Carrie); grandchildren, Kurtis, Kristy, Cameron (Sarah), Connor and Emma Coty.

 

At Raymond’s request, services will be private with a celebration of life planned at a later date.

 

Donations to the Altona Volunteer Fire Department would be greatly appreciated.

 

Arrangements are in the care of the Ross Funeral Home. To offer an online condolence, please visit, www.ROSSFUNERALHOMES.com