Raphael "Ray" Irizarry

IRIZARRY, Raphael "Ray" Raphael "Ray" Irizarry, 74 of Lebanon, died Wednesday, (March 19, 2008). Ray was born in New York City, NY, on Oct. 10, 1933, the son of the late Rafael and Ana Irizarry. He was predeceased by his brother, Noel, and sister, Gladys. He is survived by his wife and friend of 35 years, Cheryl Milano Irizarry; daughter, Tiana and her fiancée, Jeremiah Burr, daughter Severia and her husband, Justo Karell and his grandsons, Justito and Jacob Karell, son, nee Anton Irizarry and sister, Judy Caquias. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Kathryn Milano; three sisters-in-law and their families, Linda Lawton and Mike Williamson, Susan and Roc Piazza, and Laura Milano; a special Aunt, Bea Boylan and many nieces and nephews. Ray earned his psychology degrees from U of New Hampshire and was employed in the mental health field throughout his career. He was an active community advocate to educate, institute, and create new modalities of treatment for the varied crises as they occurred within the community. Ray served on the Board of the Hartford Dispensary and was the founding supervisor of the clinic helping to establish liaisons with many agencies, which aided in the growth and success of the clients and the program. He was involved in research and published several papers while at the Hispanic Health Council. For his accomplishments and dedication to the City of Hartford he was given an award of recognition by the mayor. Ray touched many lives through his professional skills, compassion, knowledge, counseling and dedication. Ray was an avid sailor and sailed around the world, and enjoyed learning about different cultures and people. He served in the Korean War. His passion and knowledge of music was extensive, his favorite being jazz. He often could be found enjoying a cigar, listening to music, and counseling a friend. His serenity was feeding the birds and enjoying the essence of nature. Ray was a wonderful husband, father, and friend to all. His presence will be profoundly missed as he impacted so many lives, but his advice and teachings will be within all of us. The family wishes to thank Dr. Santo Buccheri, Dr. Henry Danis, Dr. Ava Pannullo, Hospice of Norwich and Hartford, and the staffs of St. Francis unit 8-1, and the Hebrew Home hospital unit. There is no calling hours, a private memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a fund has been set up at Ray's request for the food banks. Contributions may be made to Raphael Irizarry Memorial Fund c/o New Alliance Bank, 31 Main St., Hebron, CT. 06248. Condolences may be sent to: www.BrookLawnFuneralHome.com