Raymond S. Peck

Ray will be remembered by family and friends for his larger-than-life presence, giving nature and his great love for public service.

His dedication to the community was proven time and again as a public servant in Bristol County and member of the Democratic Party. In 1962, he was elected as a Dartmouth town selectman. One of his proudest moments came when he was able to secure through eminent domain the land to make Round Hill a town beach for Dartmouth. The road leading to the beach was later named “Ray Peck Drive.”

He was elected as a state representative in 1964 and was later appointed chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. While a representative, he loved winning the cow milking contest on the Boston Commons and pitching the Democrats to victory in Fenway Park against the Republicans.

He later served for 26 years as a clerk magistrate in the Taunton District Court. He was a member of a number of community organizations, including Holy Ghost Club of Summit Grove, the Portuguese American Social Club, Paskamansett Beagle Club and Knights of Columbus.

Outside his public life, he was a small business owner, including the proprietor of the former Smith Mills Sporting Supply and the Raymond S. Peck’s Driving Range. Ray was a dedicated Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan. He enjoyed golfing, hunting and working in his yard.

Most importantly, Ray was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife Elaine Peck of Dartmouth, MA; his son Robert Peck and his wife Roberta of Sarasota, FL; his daughter Brenda Maciel and her husband George of Dartmouth, MA; his grandson Damen Maciel and his wife Jillian of Fairhaven, MA; and his granddaughter Laura Peck of Newburyport, MA.

In consideration of his family, his funeral service and burial were private; a public memorial will be planned for a later date. Contributions in his memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.