After learning the merchant trade, Ray moved west to Kane County, Illinois, working in a shop for three years.

He was raised on the family farm and first attended public schools before receiving education at a private academy.

In 1872, he was nominated by the party for a seat on the Illinois House of Representatives and was elected to a two-year term.

In 1888, he was nominated as Lieutenant Governor of Illinois on a ticket with Joseph W. Fifer and was elected, retiring from his store.

In 1894, he was named president of the State League of Republican Clubs, and served as a member of the national organization.