In Loving Memory of Raymond Thomas Richard
November 8, 1931 – October 7, 2025

Raymond "Ray" Thomas Richard, 93, of St. Marys, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on October 7, 2025.

He is survived by his children: Ray "Butch" Richard, Jr., Mary Rose Cannistraro, Mark Richard (partner Claudio), and Jeannette Romeo; his grandchildren: Jamie Richard (wife Cathy), Randy Richard, Jaclyn Gillespie (husband Ben), Rocco Cannistraro (wife Liz), and Michael Cannistraro (wife Christina); fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Concetta Richard; his grandson, Adam Richard; daughter-in-law, Lynne Carroll; and his sons-in-law, John Romeo and Bob Cannistraro.

Born in Waltham, Massachusetts, in 1931, Ray lived through one of the most transformative centuries in human history. He witnessed incredible change in technology, society, culture, medicine, and the world itself. Growing up during the Great Depression shaped his strength, humility, and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, integrity and family—principles that guided him throughout his nearly 94 years on this earth.

A born entrepreneur with a love for working with his hands, Ray began his journey by starting Raycon Rubber Stamp Company out of his basement in his early years. In 1965, he went on to found AeroSpace Fabricators, a precision sheet metal company specializing in components for the aerospace industry—an endeavor that became his greatest professional achievement and continues to thrive today.

Ray lived through nearly a century of history—from World War II and the moon landing to the invention of television, the rise of computers, and the age of smartphones. He witnessed seventeen presidencies, times of hardship and prosperity, and changes so profound they reshaped the world.

Through it all, he remained a steady and loving presence—a man of quiet wisdom, strong values, and a heart that always had room for others. Endlessly curious and blessed with a remarkable memory, Ray's stories carried the echoes of a different time, his laughter filled every room, and his love bound his family together across generations.

He leaves behind a legacy built on kindness, perseverance, and deep devotion to those he loved. Though the world around him changed in unimaginable ways, his character never wavered. He was, and always will be, a reminder of what it means to live a good and meaningful life.

An avid runner, skier, cyclist, and swimmer, Ray made staying active a lifelong priority. He also had a deep appreciation for the arts and leisure—enjoying painting, board games, playing pool, and tackling a good puzzle. Ever the creator and builder, he was rarely without a project. Whether constructing an ice-skating rink in the backyard of his Waltham home, building a deck at his beach house in Plymouth, designing a beach at his second home in Laconia, or spending five years crafting an elaborate four-season model railroad at his home in St. Marys, Ray approached every endeavor with energy, creativity, and determination.

A true lover of nature, he found peace in the simple beauty of the world around him—watching clouds drift across the sky, observing birds in flight, and admiring the stars at night. Every place he lived reflected that love of nature, meticulously landscaped with flowers, greenery, and the soothing sound of waterfalls he created himself. He was happiest near water—whether by his pool, a lake, pond, or the ocean—watching the ripples dance and the sunlight reflect across the surface.

His playful sense of humor and lighthearted spirit brought joy to all who knew him. He lived by the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Be silly. Be honest. Be kind."

Ninety-three years and eleven months of strength, love, and kindness—a life so beautifully lived, and a heart so deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support Neurologic Research at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. Donations can be made online at https://give.mayoclinic.org/give/609586. Please indicate the gift is made "In Memory of Ray Richard" and designate it to "Neurologic Research at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville."

Allison Memorial Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.