Those span both rugby union and league – with Ray being a dual code international – and the world of education and the media.
But at today’s funeral service, Saints chairman Eamonn McManus used part of his eulogy to read out a message from Kangaroo legend Mal Meninga, who had a guest spell at St Helens in 1984-85.
Meninga’s signing was a catalyst for the club’s most successful season for seven years – and sent a ripple through the town.
Key to that coup of a signing was Ray French, who was over in Australia on BBC commentary duties, but was Saints’ secret weapon when he slipped into the changing rooms of Lang Park, Brisbane after the second Ashes test in 1984.
When Ray left the dressing room, a folded contract with the signature of the big Australian centre on the dotted line was safely in his pocket.
The rest, as they say, is history with Big Mal helping Saints to Lancashire Cup Final and Premiership Final successes – with Ray providing the commentary.
In part of the chairman’s tribute to Ray – he read out the tribute submitted this week by Meninga .
Big Mal’s message reads:
“I will always remember Ray in the spirit he richly deserves – a true gentleman and advocate of our game and a passionate fan of St Helens.
“I know that I will be forever grateful that Ray was there when I signed for Saints – it struck me right away that if he were an example of the St Helens club then I would be more than happy to play for it.
“Of course, it was a great experience, but my endearing memory to this day is of Ray’s commentary.
“His voice exuded the exhilaration of our great game – I loved to watch the English games to hear Ray – and nothing had changed; welcoming, passionate and exciting.
“He will be sorely missed but we are very fortunate that he lives on in our memories.
“When I reflect on my time in rugby league and at the Saints his name will always be at the fore.”