BARRINGON, R.I. – Edward M. Hay of Barrington, Rhode Island, peacefully passed away Jan. 13, 2021, at the age of 89.

He was born in Portland, on Nov. 28, 1931, to Merrill and Evelyn McDougall Hay. After attending local schools in Cape Elizabeth, he graduated from Governor Dummer Academy and Bowdoin College. He later received a Master of Library Science degree from the University of Rhode Island. After college he served two years in the U.S. Army stationed in Japan. His professional life began at Ted Bates Inc. advertising firm in New York City followed by several years as a planner for Rockland County in New York state.

A move to Philadelphia saw his planning career continue for over two decades, first for the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, and then for the regional office of the U.S. National Park Service where he was involved in the planning for parks such as the Pineland National Reserve in New Jersey and the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. In the early 1980’s Ed met his second wife, Susan, and they shared a love of history, travel and music during 35 years of marriage. A return to New England brought the opportunity to change careers, finding rewarding work as a librarian at the University of Massachusetts Medical Library in Worcester. Fascinated with early building techniques, he and Susan enjoyed the challenge of restoring a 17th century home in Rehoboth, Mass.

He retired to Barrington with Susan, a place he loved for its small-town nature, good sea food and proximity to the ocean. Family and friends will remember him for his kindness and sense of humor along with a love of baseball, music and Maine. Ed was seldom seen without his treasured Bowdoin College cap.

He is survived by his son, John Hay of Philadelphia, stepson, Scott Anderson of Boulder, Colorado, sister, Sara Nichols and her husband Barrett Nichols of Yarmouth Port, Mass., and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Susan, who passed away in October 2020. A private service will be held for Edward and Susan next summer followed by burial at Evergreen Cemetery, Portland. Condolences may be left at monahandrabblesherman.com.