The youngest of three siblings, Ray Vester was born and raised in Rocky Mount, NC. At an early age, he became a Christian and soon after southern gospel music became his passion.

At the tender age of 19 Ray recorded his first record in 1979. The first song he ever wrote was on this record. “Come Soon Jesus“ was the song and was recorded by several other groups over the years. Shortly after recording his first record Ray formed his first trio called “The Faith in Action Singers". The group enjoyed some success for several years but the group was retired in 1982.

During the summer of 1982 Ray played the piano for "The Kings Messengers" from Pikeville, NC. With a longing in his soul to sing Ray formed the trio named “The Gospel Laymen ". The trio became very popular and performed in many churches and auditoriums. The Gospel Laymen recorded two albums during the 3 years it was together.

In 1985 Ray joined "The Monarchs"; he wrote and recorded "This Man from Galilee" on the "Naturally" album. This song received a lot of radio play and was very popular with audiences on the East Coast.

After all the years of being silent in southern gospel music God made a way for Ray to sing again! January 2003 was a sad time in his life but yet a new beginning. Ray was comforted and inspired by God through music in the days following his mother's death. He sat down at his keyboard with a sense of urgency and God began to pour new songs into his spirit. Ray returned to the recording studio March 28, 2003 to record the new CD entitled "Back Again". His mother Arlene Vester wrote two special songs "Rejoice in God’s Love" and "Jesus Is My Everything" on the CD.

In 2004 Ray release a new project entitled “From the Heart” which included “Time Traveler” written by his brother Richard Vester and “My Prayer” written by Ray’s mother Arlene Vester.  

In 2005 Ray release two new projects. “Here and Now”, Ray’s third vocal CD includes “All your Love” written by Ray’s brother Richard Vester. Ray also released his first instrumental CD entitled “Keyboard Favorites”. 

2005 has been a very exciting year for Ray Vester ministries!  Ray is preaching again after many years and will be touring the US and Canada in 2006 sharing his ministry.

2006 Ray traveled in full time ministry all across the USA.  New project " I'm Still Standing" was released.

2007 New project "Freedom" released.

2008 Ray continues to travel part time and is in the studio working on a new project for release soon entitled "It's All Good".