| It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Past Chief Ray Price Dove, 85, of Lusby, Maryland, who passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown.
Before joining the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad and Fire Department (SVRSFD), Ray joined the Prince Frederick Volunteer Rescue Squad at a young age. He later joined SVRSFD in the early 1960s, during the organization’s formative years. A faithful and dedicated member, he held many office positions and served as Chief from 1970 to 1973. For many years, he also represented SVRSFD as a delegate to the Maryland State Firefighters Association (MSFA) and the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association (SMVFA). His years of leadership and service reflected his lasting commitment to the department and the community.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 21, from 2 to 3 p.m., followed by fireman’s prayers and services beginning at 3 p.m. The services will take place at Solomons VRSFD, 13150 H.G. Trueman Road, Solomons, Maryland.
Departments with questions may contact President Terry L. Anderson at President@svrsfd.org.
Ray was born on January 2, 1941, in Prince Frederick, Maryland, to the late Bertha and Clyde Dove. He was the loving husband of Mary Dove, with whom he shared many years of life and cherished memories.
Ray attended Calvert High School and remained active with SVRSFD throughout his life until his retirement. His dedication to service continued through his professional career. He worked as a facility engineer at Calvert Memorial Hospital and later served in the same capacity at the Calvert County Detention Center. His skills, dependability, and willingness to serve others were evident throughout his many years of work.
Outside of service and work, Ray enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and golfing. One of his greatest joys was his classic 1957 Chevy. He took great pride in working on the car and enjoyed the special pleasure of driving it.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Dove of Lusby; his son, Kevin Dove of Lusby; and his sister, Faye Harrison. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Webb Dove.
Ray will be remembered for his lifetime of service, dedication to his community, love of family, and enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures. His years of service touched countless lives, and his memory will remain with all who knew and loved him. |
