Raymond J. Fortier Jr. passed away peacefully on the morning of January 9th, 2026, at the age of 83, after a difficult battle with cancer. Ray, as he liked to be called, was born in Sanford, ME. to parents Winnifred (Sharpe) and Raymond J. Fortier Sr on September 28th, 1942.

Having moved with his family to Somersworth NH, Ray graduated from Somersworth High in 1960. He joined the Navy and became a Radioman on a destroyer traveling to several countries including Japan & Alaska. Upon leaving the Navy he chose to do an Apprenticeship program at Baron Machine, LLC in Laconia, NH becoming a machinist until his retirement at J-Pac in Rollinsford, NH.

Ray's love of sports was well known from being on the sidelines at Somersworth High football games while simultaneously listening to UNH games on his headset. His college football passion, especially for the University of Miami, the Boston Bruins hockey team and Ray's beloved NY Yankees and Cleveland Browns.

As an adult he fell in love with the game of golf passing that love on to his grandson, Cam Brown, who accompanied him on many rounds with the "Old guys". Ray was a great dancer and loved "the Oldies" leading him to start a habit with his granddaughter,  Abby Brown when she'd leave after a visit...he'd sing "I don't want to set the world on fire" to which she'd reply "I just want to start a little flame in your heart" (courtesy of The Ink Spots).

Ray is survived by his wife of 48 years, Nancy (Cummiskey) Fortier, his daughter, Stacey Brown, his stepson Kevin Richard and his grandchildren, Cameron Brown and Abigail Brown. He is also survived by his sister Doris and her husband Norman Turgeon, his brother Donald Fortier, his brother David Fortier and his wife, Jane, as well as his sister, Nancy Mathis along with several nieces and nephews.

Ray was pre-deceased by his stepson, Jay Richard.

Ray will forever be in our hearts and will be sadly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone VNA & Hospice. We are grateful for their compassion and care over the last few months.

To leave online condolences please visit www.jspelkeyfuneralhome.com . Care for the Fortier family has been entrusted to the JS Pelkey & Son Funeral Home.