A FAMILY has been left broken-hearted after the death of Dundee-born singer and actor Raymond Johnston at his home in Hamburg, Germany.
Raymond (Ray), who was 43, passed away after a short battle with cancer.
He leaves behind three children under the age of four son Tyler James (3) and two-year-old twins Emily and Joshua.
Born and raised in Dundee, Ray was a former pupil at Kirkton High School before studying acting at Dundee College.
He was a member of Dundee Operatic Society before heading south to attend drama school in Guildford, then becoming a professional actor, performing in musicals at home and abroad including touring the UK.
Among his top roles was starring alongside Phillip Schofield in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, in which they toured the UK together.
Ray left the UK to join the cast of Starlight Express in Germany, then went on to appear in various productions before also starring in short films to be shown at the Cannes Festival.
His stepmother Christine said last night: “He sang Flower of Scotland before the Germany v Scotland match in Germany a few years ago.
“It has just been horrendous. He was only diagnosed with cancer four months ago. It’s absolutely awful. Ray had a very successful acting and singing career in theatre and films in Germany.”
His sister Bev added: “The family are very proud of his achievements and the way he has been so brave throughout his illness. We are all broken-hearted.”
Ray is survived by his partner Matthias, his children, father Raymond, stepmother Christine, sister Bev and brother Paul.
He was predeceased by his mother Heather and sister Sharon.
awilson@thecourier.co.uk