LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Russell neighborhood is mourning the loss of business owner and pillar in the community, Orlando “Baby Ray” Gay.
“He made this place. You could come in here any day of the week, and he would be here,” his brother William Gay said.
Whether behind the bar or near the dance floor, Orlando was known for showing up to Double Deuces in style. Underneath it all, William said he was just a big brother.
“If you needed anything, all you had to do is give him a phone call and he’ll do it,” he said.
Saturday morning, William said Orlando decided to take some time for himself. That’s when his brother was injured on a fishing boat along River Road around 12:30 p.m.
Something flew out of the water and hit him. He was in shallow water,” William said.
According to Louisville Metro Police, Orlando received injuries while aboard the boat. Some nearby boaters got him ashore and helped render aid until first responders arrived.
Orlando was taken to UofL Hospital where he died from his injuries a short time later.
William said he rushed over as soon as he received a phone call. He said the news of “Baby Ray’s” passing is still fresh, and the thought of him not being around is painful for the entire community.
“They called him uncle,” he said. “They would come by and ask him, ‘Is there any work for us Uncle Ray? Is there anything we could do for you?’ He would invite them in and [have them] take out the garbage. Stuff like that.”
Though things will no longer be the same without “Baby Ray”, William said the doors of Double Deuce will remain open and his legacy will live on forever.
Family members have organized a balloon release in Ray’s honor on June 26 at 6 p.m. at Double Deuce on 25th and Broadway. The public is welcomed to join.
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