Ray

[Verse 1]
Forty years ago tonight
The music played, the room was light
I found a love I couldn't hide
A gentle soul standing by my side
That first slow dance, I looked your way
And I've been holding on since that day

[Chorus]
Oh Ray, you're the answer to my prayer
A steady heart, a love beyond compare
Through the joy and through the years
Faith to hold us, hope to calm the fears
Happy birthday, my dearest friend
I'll love you 'til the very end

[Verse 2]
You said, "Don't look at me that way,
It makes me stutter" — I was hooked to stay
You raised my children as your own
Made a house into a home
A tender heart, forgiving grace
No one could ever take your place

[Chorus]
Oh Ray, you're the answer to my prayer
A steady heart, a love beyond compare
Through the joy and through the years
Faith to hold us, hope to calm the fears
Happy birthday, my dearest friend
I'll love you 'til the very end

[Bridge]
Every storm we ever weathered through
You stayed strong, and so I clung to you
When I stumbled, you forgave
Your quiet love, forever brave

[Verse 3]
Now I raise a glass to you tonight
Still stealing glances by candlelight
The best decision of my days
Was giving all my heart to Ray
So here's to more years, hand in hand
The kindest, dearest, gentlest man

[Chorus]
Oh Ray, you're the answer to my prayer
A steady heart, a love beyond compare
Through the joy and through the years
Faith to hold us, hope to calm the fears
Happy birthday, my dearest friend
I'll love you 'til the very end

[Outro]
Don't look at me that way, they say —
I'll love you always, my sweet Ray.