Wallingford Mourns Loss Of Beloved Town Photographer, Board Of Education Member

WALLINGFORD, CT — The Town of Wallingford is mourning the death of Ray Ross, a longtime resident whose photography and public service helped chronicle the life of the community for decades.

He was also elected to the Board of Education in November.

Town officials said Ross was a familiar presence at local events, often seen with a camera in hand, documenting school activities, parades, and everyday moments around town. His work earned him recognition as Wallingford’s official town photographer and helped preserve the community’s history through thousands of images.

Through his photography, Ross became deeply involved in town life. Officials noted that he was a strong supporter of local schools and played a key role in the Connecticut Traditional Jazz Festival for many years before the event ended. His dedication extended across numerous civic and cultural events in Wallingford.

“Ray will be missed in many ways and by many people,” town officials said in a statement, calling his impact on the community lasting and meaningful.

In its statement, the town extended condolences to Ross’s family, friends, and colleagues, and said his absence will be deeply felt by many.

Numerous people shared heartfelt remembrances concerning Ross' legacy in Wallingford.

"There will be a thousand posts because Ray Ross touched so many lives and all of them deserved; each one a special mourning poured out of hearts. To not have just served the community but directly affected so many people individually through his service, his photos and his friendship turned out to be a treasure for all of us," wrote Tom Laffin, a town councilor, in a social media tribute.

The Spanish Community of Wallingford (SCOW) said in a social media post that they "are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved friend, champion, and ambassador, Ray Ross."

"He was a familiar and welcome presence at our events and was instrumental in capturing countless photographs at our annual fundraisers, music and program events, as well as many school and community gatherings," the Spanish Community of Wallingford (SCOW) said. "Ray was an active volunteer who served on the Board of Education and on several committees and boards throughout the town. His presence and contributions meant so much to so many, and he will be missed dearly."

Board of Education member Rajan Doering wrote in a post on Facebook that Ross was a "dedicated servant to our school district, both through his eight years of service on the board and through his countless pictures taken at school functions."

"He also served the wider Wallingford community in more ways than can be listed," Doering wrote. "I have known him for about a decade now - I will certainly miss my fellow Board Member Mr. Ross, and even more than that I will miss my friend Ray."