United States of America

E. Dean Pray

Died August 20, 1940

E. Dean Pray.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Deputy Sheriff Dean Pray was shot and killed after he confronted a man that was creating a disturbance near an automotive garage in North Windham. The suspect, 49, was convicted of murder and committed to Thomaston State Prison on January 13th, 1942, to serve a life sentence. On August 16, 1963, he hanged himself in his cell. Deputy Pray was a WWI veteran and had served with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office for 10 years.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife, son, sister, and brother.
Service Record
Also Served
Cumberland County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 43W · Line 17 cut as E DEAN PRAY
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Deputy Sheriff Pray gave the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office 10 years.

Thank you for your service to the Portland community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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