Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Raymond Smith, Obituary
He was born in Meriden, Feb. 2, 1967, a son of Marion (Cotrona) Smith and the late James Smith. Ray was a graduate of Sheehan High School and had been employed by United Concrete. His passion was music and he was the lead singer of Tear Gas Union and CrossRoads.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his son, Raymond J. "Joey" Smith, Jr.; his fiancée, Allison Vandermaelen; his siblings, Edward James Smith (Christine), Richard A. Smith (Darlene) and Shelly Bounanni (Al); and six nieces; he is also survived by Allison's family, her children, Stephen and Jenna; her parents, William and Dolores Ricci; and her brother, Stephen Ricci.
His family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, July 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. in The Wallingford Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10 a.m. directly at The Church of the Resurrection, 115 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Meriden. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory may be sent to his family c/o The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext., Wallingford, CT 06492.
www.wallingfordfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Smith,
Raymond Pavao
July 14, 2025
I can't believe how fast time goes. I hope Ray is watching over his family. He was a great friend. Take care Ray.
Your friend Raymond Pavao
Simone Micciche
July 16, 2019
I still talk about allthe AWESOME crazy times we had .I STILL tell ppl how 22 yrs ago you watched out for me the ENTIRE time I was pregnant for my now 21 yr old daughter. How I grabbed everyone's kids out of school on 911 and we all went to your house to see what would happen next . Despite the circumstances I felt SO SAFE there . Always felt safe with Ray .How I used to watch his son while he performed at the Hanover House when he was maybe 6 or 7 ! How you almost crashed us into that tractor trailer leavin the H at 2 am(his breaks were the reason lol) . Me prego and all no booze just was just there every night w Ray behind the bar . He drove me home every night . Sounds like hes like an ex or something . Nope justthe BEST friend a girl could ask during an extremely trying time in her life !~ HE WAS THE BEST !
Tom Varrato
July 14, 2019
Hard to not to see you cousin, love you miss you. Always in my Heart.
Patti Somma
August 3, 2016
RIP Ray
You are now an Angel watching over the others.
Patti Somma
August 3, 2016
RIP Ray,
You are now an Angel watching over the others.
Jacklyn Krampitz
July 27, 2016
My condolences to the entire Smith family. Marion my heart goes out to you. May you find comfort in Gods peace.
RIP RAY
Richard Condon
July 26, 2016
Our thoughts & prayers are with your family.
RIP
Rhino & Donna
Greg Post
July 25, 2016
I have only known Ray and Allison for a short time, but they were a great couple and always quick to smile and sit and talk.
When I heard Ray sing for the first time at Rovers he was amazing. And Allison cheered the loudest and smiled the hardest.
He was a great guy and he will be sooo missed. He touched everyone he came in contact with ...I wish I had known him longer.
July 24, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the Smith family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Broken Hearted
July 23, 2016
To Ray's family and friends I did not know him personally however, I have heard nothing but GREAT words about him since this tragic accident. No words can take away your unimaginable pain you all must be feeling but cherish the good times and remember HE IS A SPECIAL GUARDIAN ANGEL watching down on all of you. May Ray RIP Also sending prayers for a speedy recovery for Alison as I will keep her in my prayers God Bless You All
Rosanne & Michael Stoddard
July 23, 2016
Dear Rich and Entire Smith Family,
We are so sorry to hear of the tragic loss of your brother. Our deepest condolences to everyone. We are thinking of you and if you need anything, please don't hesitate.
The Stoddard Family
Norman Beisel
July 23, 2016
Ray you were like a brother to me at the hardest time of my life, I'll never forget it .. the whole summer lifting weights in the back of Melinda's house ..we got huge .. them 4th of July weekends .in New Hampshire on spotford Lake with my sister and all the kids and Melinda ...and band practices and nights out playing nothing but great times... I think back working with you and Al, for your uncle cotrona ...more Good Times... I think the world needs more people like Ray .. to your family very very sorry and Allison very very sorry just remember the good times rest in peace my brother !!!! Norm Beisel
Dave Foss
July 23, 2016
I didn't really know him personally. But did see him perform many times. A great singer(especially of the dio classics). Sorry too one and all who knew and loved him. My condolences.
Sheila Mangine
July 23, 2016
Ray, You will be deeply missed. You had a smile that lit up the room. Such a beautiful soul! Always kind with a soft voice .I was hooked the first time I ever heard your amazing voice! Sing with the angels my friend! So many people are carrying a piece of you with them . "Simple "Man" is one of my favorite songs and every time I hear it,it will have a different meaning now.Thank you for the memories, laughs, and sharing your love of music with so many.
Paul Goodmaster
July 23, 2016
I really didn't know Ray that well, having met him just a few times. He always had a big smile plastered on his face, never a frown. I sometimes think his face was unable to make a frown, only a smile. So sad that we lost one of the good guys. The annual game dinner won't be the same without you there...
Ray Pavao
July 22, 2016
Ray time goes to fast and we lived fast and before we know everything just stops i am very sad of what happened and hope your ok. I hope in the time you were here you found whats in life. You brought smiles laughter and a kind presence to everyone you met and i will always remember the crazy times but i will think of what could have been. Life really is to short. You will be missed. Your friend Ray Pavao
July 22, 2016
Sorry for your loss. My late husband Larry Shahine was in a band called "Live Evil" with Ray for many years. My heart and prayers go out to Allison and family.
Gail Shahine
Laura DiMeola
July 22, 2016
I am so very heartbroken over this loss. Ray was such an undeniably good person, and the love that he and Allison shared was the kind of love anyone could ever hope for. Good people do not deserve such tragedies. As I say goodbye to Ray tonight, my heart is so heavy. May he forever ROCK the Heavens!! And, of course, I send all my love to Allison and wish her all of the peace and comfort in the world, as she deserves every bit of it ♡♡♡ R.I.P., Ray
Cindy
July 22, 2016
He became a treasure in our (Allison's) family. The void will be great. Wonderful man, a real rock star. We will truly miss you.
Peter Pashley
July 22, 2016
Sorry to you Richie, Eddie and Shelly...may Ray rest in peace...I think of all of you often...with a smile.
Markus and Kelly Briles
July 22, 2016
Our heartfelt sympathy from our family to the Smith family and to all of the friends and acquaintances who had the honor of knowing him .Ray touched all of our lives and souls in some way, but always bought joy, love, and happiness to everyone. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May the Lord grant us peace in knowing that he will live on in each of us through the precious memories he gave each and everyone of us.
Tonia Wrigh-Buczek
July 22, 2016
My sincere sympathy to all of Th Smith family.
Stephanie Parmelee Stoetzer
July 21, 2016
My heartfelt sympathy to all of the Smiths. Ray will always have a special place in my heart and I hold dear, the many memories we made growing up. In Peace.
Bob Bruzy
July 21, 2016
Ray,
You were a NEON KNIGHT who told us to STAND UP AND SHOUT! We were ROCK AND ROLL CHILDREN and we were never THE LAST IN LINE! We would travel STRANGE HIGHWAYS to hear you scream WE ROCK! Now, it is a MYSTERY to us all why JESUS, MARY, and THE HOLY GHOST chose to call you home. No longer are you HUNGRY FOR HEAVEN , your SACRED HEART shining bright. I believe RJD himself was there to greet you where you are now an ANGEL ON THE SILVER MOUNTAIN. Rock the Heavens!
\../ \../ Bob Bruzy
Tom & Robin Varrato
July 21, 2016
Ray, I'm going to miss you, such a talented and loving guy always smiling and laughing. Robin an I loved to go to your shows. My dear cousin you'll be in our hearts forever we love you God Bless You...We'll see each other in the big highway in the sky
Amy B.
July 21, 2016
Ray was a great friend to my sister and brother in law, my heart aches for all his family and friends. He always had a smile on his face and would make you laugh. He was a great performer and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
July 20, 2016
Ray was a great guy, who was compassionate and always lightened your moon, or for some lightened your world. He will truly be missed but i know he will rock the heavens.
JM
July 20, 2016
My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends during this difficult time. The sting of death brings grief that is difficult to bear, especially when it is unexpected. I hope the promise at 1 Thessalonians 4:14 can bring comfort. Knowing there is a hope for the ones we have lost in death can be so reassuring.
JEAN SIRENO
July 20, 2016
REST IN PEACE RAYMOND WE WILL MISS YOU JEAN AND SCOTT SIRENO
Dennsi Rodgers
July 20, 2016
Rich,Eddie,family and friends, Sorry to hear of Ray's passing. The few times I ran into him he was always upbeat and smiling. He will surely be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Georgine Clark
July 20, 2016
Eddy, we are so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother . Your pain must be unimaginable. Know we are here if you need anything. May he rest in Peace.
Tom and Georgine Clark
Tamie Lis
July 20, 2016
Shelly and family of Ray,
Words are just not enough to express my deepest sympathy. May Ray be your blessed guardian angel and may his music remain in your hearts and soul.....Tamie
Susan Natle
July 20, 2016
I don't even have words to express how sadden I was to hear the tragic news. Ray I haven't seen you in years but I do remember that smile. May god bless your family and Alison's. You will be missed by all. My prayers are with you all.
Susan Passmore-Cone
July 20, 2016
To All of Ray's Family,
My sincere sympathy with thoughts and prayers for all of you. Ray was a great guy, with so much to to offer, god took him way to soon.
R I P Ray
Sincerely
Sue Passmore Cone
AnnMarie Lynch
July 19, 2016
RIP Ray, you will truly missed. Prayers to your family and many friends.
June Emery
July 19, 2016
May you rock the heavens so loud we will hear you from there and ride forever more with those we lost before. I will miss you my friend.You gave nothing but great memories. I know you will be by your Allison's side in spirit. My heartfelt condolences to both family's.
Paulie K
July 19, 2016
I know we will see you again.
God bless you Ray.
REST IN POWER, BROTHER.
Robert Girard
July 19, 2016
Rip Ray. Had some great Times. U will be missed. Rock the heavens...god bless
Michelle Faraci
July 19, 2016
Ray
You were a terrific artist in music. Your musical talent was always shared with the public. You were always there and would lend a helping hand to those in need. Thank you for your unending dedication to all who knew you. You were a gift from God to so many. May you rest in peace. May your family be comforted during this difficult time. God Speed.
Mike Vandermaelen
July 19, 2016
3,440,000,000 men on earth...but somehow my beautiful x wife found the greatest one...thank you Raymond from the bottom of my heart to help make Stephen and Jenna who they are today...u will be so missed...he was at every dance recital every baseball game....he was the best ever
Libby Maddalone
July 19, 2016
Ray my heart weighs heavy.. Since Friday's Devestating news . I have visions of your Kind Smile that Everyone Loved about you. You will be Deeply Missed my Friend . My prayers are with your Children family & The Love of Your Life. RIP Ray.. To A Kind Loving Talented Soul
John Roberts
July 19, 2016
I've known Ray and Al for about 10 years or so now and we have spent many great nights of music together with Rays many bands over the years, Angry Again, Holy Diver, and Crossroads. I feel so blessed to be a part of their group of friends and am happy to have become friends with Ray, because he was such a great and funny person with a heart of gold. This loss is affecting many people I know and the outpouring of love and support is incredible. Life is definitely changed for all of us. I'll miss you Ray and anything Al needs, all she has to do is ask.R.I.P. my friend.
Allyson Budnick
July 19, 2016
Ray was always a friend to me during the past 30 years or so. Live Evil, The Hanover House, A big pot pf Pasta Fagioli to share with friends. I will forever be grateful to have known him, to see him go so far with his career. Even though a few years have past since we have really gotten to talk, when I would see him I was always greeted with a huge smile and a hug. My heart hurts for all that were so close to him, Alison. his son. his siblings and parents. I'm sure it is any extra kind of painful to his bandmates ( because you choose them and them you). The heavens gained a good one, Rest in peace my friend.
Brian Duca
July 19, 2016
It was an honor and a privilege to share the stage with you on more than one occasion.
You have amazing talent.
Condolences to the family.
Rest in power Ray
Elaine & Jim, Anderson
July 19, 2016
Ray was one of the nicest people we have ever met he remodeled our kitchen singing and playing his music all the time he worked. I was introduced to Ray through my daughter a dear friend of Alison and Ray. Rest in peace Ray and may you always be Alison's angel
Jake & Elwood
Paul Boutin
July 19, 2016
May the sun rise in front of me
May the rain fall behind me
And the wind follow me
May the angels guard my travels
For they know the road ahead of me
Keep me safe through swirling turns
and rolling hills
Let the eagle guide me to the
mountaintops
Let the moon light guide me through
the night
Lord thank you for letting me be a
Biker.
R.I.P. Raymond We Love you, Heidi & Paul
August 1986 Meriden Ct.
Eric Bower
July 19, 2016
Rest in peace Ray. You were always a good dude and I always remember you with that smile. We party hard back in the day and had many good laughs. You will be missed bro.
Bridget dicosimo
July 19, 2016
\m/RIP RAY\m/
Bridget DiCosimo
July 19, 2016
I didn't know Ray personally but I knew him from his rockin bands and my boyfriend is a musician and knew Ray and spoke highly of him and what a great performer he was. Almost everyone you know had nothing but good things to say about Ray. It is such a tragedy he is gone, but he will sing and rock in the heavens for eternity now. I pray that Allison will make a full recovery and be comforted by the beautiful memories Ray left behind. Sincere sympathy and peace to all of Ray's family and friends.
speed
July 19, 2016
<\3
Tom Oliveira
July 19, 2016
The music community lost a stellar performer, the area lost a great friend; we share the pain of this loss, deeply.
MICHELE DECAPRIO
July 19, 2016
So sorry for your loss, he was far too young to be taken so early. RIP Ray..
July 19, 2016
Mike and Wendi Lawlor, Murfreesboro, TN
KathyKathy Malone
July 19, 2016
Ray ....when ever i saw you you would sing my name KaaaaathyKaaaathy!!! it made me smile every time , now i have that and i will never forget it Ray Smith was the true meaning of a friend . im going to miss seeing you at Gulf where we would talk for an hour or more lol. I am at a loss for words ...you would have gotten a big giggle out of that one lol, but I AM HONORED TO CALL YOU MY FRIEND RAY SMITH !! I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU .
ROCK ON BABY ...ROCK ON!!
John Violette
July 19, 2016
RIP my brother u will be missed till we meet again get the heavens rocking with that amazing voice and glow that was around u rest easy my friend !!
Brian D
July 19, 2016
My deepest and most heart-felt condolences to all of Ray's family and friends. My thoughts are with Alison, her family, and friends as well. Rest in peace, Ray.
Simone Bernier ~ Micciche
July 19, 2016
Though we didn't cross paths nearly enough in the latter years the time we did share in the past those memories I will always CHERISH ! We'll always have the Hanover House though ill always regret not singing with you more back then .You were a TERRIFIC friend in my time of need. ROCK those heavens my friend <3
Amy F
July 19, 2016
Rest easy Ray
Bob
July 19, 2016
Ray was an amazing person, and a ridiculous lead singer. I'd see him at Cherry Street all the time and he was always kind. Truly missed in our scene.
Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results
Make a Donation
in Raymond Smith,'s name
Memorial Events
for Raymond Smith,
Funeral services provided by:
Wallingford Funeral Home - Wallingford809 North Main Street Ext., Wallingford, CT 06492
How to support Raymond's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Raymond Smith,'s life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
