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Raymond Delaney Obituary
Ray was born April 22, 1953 in Newark, NJ, a son of the late Raymond and Matilda Markowicz Delaney. He was a graduate of Mexico Academy and Central School Class of 1971.
Ray retired three years ago after 30 years of service for the New York State Department of Transportation as a general foreman.
Ray was best known for his love and dedication to bluegrass music. With his brother John, he founded Delaney Brothers Bluegrass that touched the hearts of audiences for over 35 years. For 12 years Ray was co-host of the "Hometown Bluegrass" radio show on WXHC in Homer, NY. In addition, Ray was co-founder of "Bluegrass on the Green" which will celebrate its 23rd year this June.
Ray is survived by his loving wife, Vicky of Cortland; brothers, Mike (Winsome) of Orlando, FL, John of Auburn; sister, Maryanne (Chuck) Delaney-Bush of NJ, and several nieces and nephews.
Ray will always be remembered for his truly genuine, humble and gentle nature. There wasn't a person who knew Ray who didn't feel their life was enriched because of it, and you could not meet him without being shown pictures of "the best breed" …….bulldogs.
A celebration of Ray's life will be held on Saturday, April 19 at 1 p.m. at the Ramada Cortland, 2 River Street, Cortland, NY 13045 (607) 756-4431. A reception will follow. Calling hours will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Prior to services, also at the Ramada.
Arrangements are under the direction of Riccardi Funeral Home, 69 N. Main St., Cortland, NY.
Date of Death: April 14, 2014
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Delaney
Zeke Smukler
March 31, 2025
I met Ray at the Bluegrass Ramble picnic a long time ago. He had a son named Jonathan who sang and played bass. But this obituary didn´t say that Ray was survived by his son.
Charlie Kehn
February 15, 2018
I'm just now finding this out :'( I've known Ray since I was a little boy...He was always so kind to me! I still have the bottle of guitar polish he gave me for my guitar :'(
Alan Barnes
April 22, 2014
We are so saddened to hear of Ray's recent passing. We have so many fond memories of him when he often came to visit our house in Mexico, NY. Especially with his pal Myron Barnes as they were truly the "best of friends and classmates." Ray will be truly missed by all of us!
Dan Hauswirth
April 19, 2014
So sorry to hear of this great loss. My thoughts are with you John as you deal with this.
Nancy Keller-Horn
April 19, 2014
So many years and so many memories- one of earth's finest has gone to Heaven's gates- no sad farewells, no tear dimmed eyes, where all is peace and love ... rest in Peace my treasured friend. My condolences to his wife Vicky - to Johnny, Michael and Maryanne - my prayers surround you for comfort and peace.
April 18, 2014
Vicki, I am so sorry! As you know, Horst and Ray fought the same battle. Horst lost his on February 16th. We both loved going to listen to Ray and got a special kick when Ray would mention we were in the audience. Gosh, I am so sad. Horst enjoyed working with Ray and was very fond of him. Hugs...
Linda Koslowsky
john watson
April 18, 2014
best wishes to rays family. truly a gentleman and a good friend. very tough wrestling partner. will miss.
Rosine Kentucky, 2003 about
Laurie Leenhouts
April 17, 2014
Remembering Ray and the special friends and music we've shared.
Brenda Lee
April 17, 2014
My heart felt sympathy to the family of Ray Delaney. Ray was a super guy. I feel honored to have known him. He will truly be missed. God bless you all.
Rick Nellis
April 17, 2014
Ray was one of the nicest guys I've known. I will always remember him playing shortstop w/ his Yankees hat on backwards when we played for Jack's Tavern in '78. Truly a warm, friendly man. My sympathy to his family. R.I.P. my friend.................
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