Raymond J. Scalise

Raymond J. Scalise, born August 27, 1934, in Warren, PA., passed peacefully on Sunday, July 28, 2024, from complications from Alzheimer's.
Ray is survived by his wife, Pamela; daughter, Becky (Jim) Ulmer of Tampa, FL., daughter, Laurie (Bill) Gable of Stockbridge, GA., daughter, Sally (Jerry) Lucia of Westfield, NC., brother, Fred (Margie) Scalise of Warren, PA., sister, Jean (Frank) Temple of Youngsville, PA., 10 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, 4 stepchildren and 2 step grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dominic and Sara R. Barone Scalise.
Ray served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he was an Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery.
He spent his working years in sales, and also fulfilled his passion for food as the founder of the "King of Wings" restaurant in Tampa.
Ray loved music, he sang tenor in the Heralds of Harmony barbershop chorus, and in several quartets, over the span of more than 50 years. He loved performing around the community, and later developed his own "Tribute to Perry Como" show, entertaining mostly in senior communities. He was active in the local karaoke scene too, he was also a member of the Folk Group at Holy Family Catholic Church.
Ray's biggest joy was being with family, and in particular he loved cooking for and feeding his family with delicious Italian food.
Ray's faith was always important to him, and serving the church in various ways was a priority in his life. May he rest in peace in his Father's arms.
The family is grateful for the care he received from Empath Health Suncoast Hospice of Palm Harbor; from Bay Pines Veteran's Hospital; from Whitsym In Home Care: and from Laura Frigo.
Service will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 200 78th Ave., NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702, on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 2:00 PM, with a reception following in the Church Hall. In addition, there will be a memorial service at Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA., on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. with Fr. Richard C. Tomasone, Pastor of St. Joseph R.C. Church, officiating. A reception will follow the service at St. Joseph School Meyer Hall. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Alzheimer's Association, Tampa Bay Herald's of Harmony, Empath Health Suncoast Hospice or Holy Family Catholic Church.