Rev. Abraham Ray Damon

Reverend Dr. Abraham Ray Damon, affectionately known as “AD,” passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Hillsborough, New Jersey. He was 83 years old. Charismatic, full of wisdom, and blessed with a creative, innovative mind, Abraham left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on August 26, 1942, in Timmonsville, South Carolina, Abraham was the beloved seventh child of Harrison and Ruby Damon. From a young age, he displayed natural musical and comedic talents, along with an unyielding passion for knowledge. At the age of 20, he married the love of his life, Carrie Damon, and together they boldly journeyed north to Plainfield, New Jersey, where Abraham built both a family and a legacy. A man of faith, service, and community, Abraham’s journey was as inspiring as it was impactful. He began working as a school bus driver in South Carolina and later became an entrepreneur, opening Damon Autobody Shop—an enduring testament to his vision and work ethic. His love for music found voice through the Plainfield Male Chorus and The Male Voices of Miracle Baptist Church, where his rich, resonant voice uplifted countless hearts. Abraham’s faith guided his life’s work. Ordained as a deacon at Miracle Baptist Church, he later answered the call to ministry, pastoring at Lebanon Baptist Church in Plainfield, NJ and serving as Associate Pastor at Chaney Grove Missionary Baptist Church and Favor of God International Worship Center in South Carolina. His passion for teaching God’s Word inspired and transformed lives across generations. Beyond the pulpit, he gave generously of his time to community service and was active in the International Order of Freemasonry for over 60 years where his brothers remember him as a man of wisdom, faith and steadfast character. Abraham also shared his love of cooking with the community—through preparing barbecue feasts that brought joy to others at Royall Elementary School. Abraham was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Harrison Damon; his brothers Robert (Mary) Damon, Harrison (Mable) Damon, and Horace (Ida Ree) Damon; his sisters Mary (Albert) Thorne, Anne Lou (Frank) Rivers, Martha (James) Anderson, Bertha Lee Bradham, Kay Fowler, and Ruby Jean(Aaron) Rufus; his beloved son and daughter Darryl Damon and Margaret Ann Pigatt-Lanier. He leaves to cherish his memory, his former wife, the love of his life Carrie(Virgina Ham); his devoted children Larryl (Darlene) Damon, Donnie (Cheryl) Damon, Delveta (Prince) Bannister, Delvis (LaDonna) Damon, Dwayne Damon, and Amir Jones and daughter in law Rhonda Damon; his brothers Charles (Eleanor) Damon, David Damon, and Isaac Damon; his brothers in law Gabriel Bradham and Carl Fowler, Jr; 17 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, former parishioners, and friends who loved him dearly. Abraham’s warmth, wit, musical gifts, and unwavering guidance will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. When you see an antique car or when you hear good Quartet Gospel music, be reminded of him.