Pete Thongchua Remembers Ray McDonald From Before Fame

On August 20, a funeral rite and Buddhist blessing ceremony for Ray McDonald, an iconic 1990s entertainer, was held at Wat Yang Luang Temple. The atmosphere was filled with grief as family, close friends, and colleagues paid their respects. Pete Thongchua, Ray's close friend from before their entertainment careers, opened up about their lifelong bond.

"Ray was like a younger brother I knew before he ever entered the industry," Pete shared. "My youngest brother was the same age as Ray. When Ray was around 12, 13, or 14, he'd stay at my house with other kids. We'd do activities together—cycling, hanging out. There was Ray, Chakrit, and others not in the business. We grew up together. But I watched him develop and grow until he became famous with Grammy, did radio shows, became an actor and host, and eventually became a YouTuber and content creator. I saw every step of his growth."

Pete revealed they last met three or four months ago. "My daughter had just finished plotting a film script and wanted to cast Ray in it. We were going to have Ray call to discuss it—we had everything lined up. But it never happened."

When asked if Ray seemed unwell at their last meeting, Pete said no. "He seemed completely fine that day. I'm used to his personality—he's always been a cute, mischievous type. That's just his character, and it never changed from before he was famous until now."

Pete concluded with a message inspired by Ray's life: "Life is much shorter than we think. Unexpected circumstances can happen to any of us. I want everyone to use whatever time they have left to be as happy as possible. Don't waste time on toxic things—they're pointless. To Ray's fans and everyone watching: if you have the chance to pray or make merit, please do so for him."