Raymond F. Smith

Raymond Smith, 84, of West Haven, died on December 30, 2021, after a brief illness.  Born in Waterbury on January 4, 1937, son of the late James P. and Marie (Gangoff) Smith of Thomaston, CT.  Survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Myrna (LeRoy) Smith; daughter Maryanne (James) Murray; sons Raymond Jr. (Lucille) and William (Karen) Smith; brother Ret. Captain James (Barbara) Smith; sister Rosemary Nevers; grandchildren Jason (Alise) & Samantha (Adam) Murray, Hilary (Michael) Fong, as well as Sarah (Jason), Jeffrey & Collin Smith; great-granddaughter Avery; and many nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by his sister Barbara (Dan) Belling; and brother-in-law Robert Nevers.

Upon graduating from the Sacred Heart High School of Waterbury, Ray enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve, whereby he served for eight years.  He married his high school sweetheart, Myrna, moved to West Haven, and together raised their beautiful family.  Ray spent much of his career with Parametrics of Orange, ultimately retiring as an operations manager.  He later enjoyed many years of employment as a driver for Hy’s Limousine Service of West Haven. 

Ray held his faith in high regard, a testament of such being his continued dedication to St. Louis Church of West Haven, dutifully serving as a communicant.  He was an avid fisherman, gardener, and UCONN basketball fan.  He always had time and so enjoyed a good story, particularly known to make those around him laugh and amused by his ‘one-liners’.  Above all else, however, Ray considered his family and dogs to be the greatest source of personal joy.  His children will proudly serve as his legacy, and Ray was so pleased to experience the growth of his family- expecting two great-grandsons at the time of his passing.  He will be forever missed by those who knew him. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to West Haven Funeral Home at the Green.  Calling hours will take place on Sunday, January 2nd, from 4 to 6 o’clock, in the funeral parlor.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 3rd, at 11 o’clock, in St. Louis Church of St. John XXIII Parish, West Haven.  Interment will immediately follow at St. Thomas Cemetery, Thomaston, CT. 

The family has requested that all attendees wear a face mask. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Raymond’s name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN  38105.

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