Ray F. Wellbaum of Brookline, MA died on May 8 at home surrounded by love and carried on wings of song, after a courageous three-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 73 years old.

A kind and loving soul known for his wise counsel, generosity, and bawdy, good natured sense of humor, Ray was born and raised in Cincinnati, the son of Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra musicians Jack and Linda Wellbaum. Music was always a huge part of Ray's family life, and he began studying piano and trumpet at an early age. He graduated from Walnut Hills High School and Philadelphia College of the Performing Arts (now the University of the Arts), before going on to earn a Juris Doctor from Temple University School of Law.

In Philadelphia, Ray met and married his beloved wife of over 40 years, Karen Campbell, also a musician and a writer. Ray often said of Karen, "She is my Partner in Life  – and I am the luckiest man in the world!" After practicing law for a few years, Ray and Karen moved to New York City, where their first daughter Leah was born and Ray held executive positions with Philharmonia Virtuosi, New York City Opera, and Carnegie Hall

In 1991, the couple moved to Boston, where their second daughter Emma was born and Ray was the Orchestra Manager of the Boston Symphony Orchestra for over 25 years. "It was a dream job," Ray said. "Hearing great music at Symphony Hall, one of the world's greatest concert halls, and at Tanglewood . . . working with fabulous musicians, great guest artists and conductors . . .   an amazing experience."

Ray was an engaged, doting, and devoted father. He loved music, sports, puzzles, "Jeopardy!," good food, and travel. In his role as BSO Orchestra Manager, Ray organized numerous domestic and international tours for the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops. "Tours are the highlight of orchestra life –when they go well," he chuckled.

Living modestly but giving generously, Ray was an active member of the vibrant and caring community of First Parish in Brookline, where he taught religious education classes for many years and served on a variety of committees. In retirement, Ray served as a literacy tutor in the Boston Public Schools, regaling children with reading and sing-along videos via zoom during COVID.

In addition to his wife, Karen, Ray is survived by his beloved family -- daughters Leah and Emma Wellbaum, sisters Laura Kalaitzoglou and Lisa Wellbaum Geber and her husband Stephen, nieces Stephanie Geber, and Lauren Geber Marquez and her husband Danny, nephews Alex and Erik Kalaitzoglou, great nephews Rylan and Kingston, and great niece Alena. A private family service has been planned. A celebration of Ray's life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, or Good Shepherd Community Care.

During his last weeks, Ray devised an outline for a Celebration of Life that would be a joyous opportunity for those who loved him to come together, recount memories, hear beautiful music, and share the love. If you are able, please save the date and plan to join us.

Ray Wellbaum -- Celebration of Life

June 29, 2024, 11 a.m.

First Parish in Brookline

382 Walnut St.

Brookline, MA 02445

617-566-1933