A Tribute to Ray

On Friday November 20, 2009 Ray Ducoat lost his battle with cancer. Drummers will sorely miss him all over the world. He was a father, a husband, a patriot, but most importantly my friend. He put me in business and helped me stay in business. He always shot straight with you and kept his word. If he told you he would do it, he did it, a rarity in the music business. His work was perfect and his attitude was always helpful. Ray was one of my best friends even though we never met, I had an instant like for him. We spent hours talking about drums and New York Giants versus my Dallas Cowboys. Yes, Ray loved the Giants but I overlooked that shortcoming. Ray was not a drummer but a superb plastics engineer and had great knowledge of acrylics and I, a professional drummer which made for a match made in heaven. I educated him on drums and sound design and he educated me on plastic physics. Ray also really loved his family especially his wife, Jean, and talked about her often.

Ray, a friend to all drummers everywhere and my good friend I will miss you deeply and think of you every time I play my drums. God only made one Ray and for that reason The Gold-n-Times web site will be going down, as Ray simply can not be replaced.

Kevin Willis / owner of Percussion Kus-toms

Gold-N-Times is no longer in business, however, this website will remain online through January 2010.

Please take a moment to send the family your condolenses.

Thank you for supporting Ray throughout his career.