Rayeann M. "Raye" Pragano

Aunt Raye wasn´t just my aunt, she was like a second mother, a friend, and one of the strongest women who helped raise me. She was my mom´s twin, and the two of them, along with my grandmother, were the center of my world. I didn´t grow up with a lot of friends, but I never felt alone because I had them. They were my people. My laughter, my comfort, my home.

Aunt Raye had a fiery spirit and she could crack you up without even trying. We had so many inside jokes.

Even though she´s gone, her spirit is still with me. In every laugh that sneaks up on me, in every sharp-witted comeback I hear in my head, and in every memory of the family that made me who I am. She was one of a kind, and I´ll carry her with me for the rest of my life.

Now, with her passing, I feel like the last piece of a sacred trio is gone. First my mom, then my grandmother, and now her.

I love you, Aunt Raye. Give Mom and Gram a hug from me. I hope you´re all together, laughing like we all used to.