Raymond J. Damiani

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond J. Damiani, who died peacefully on Monday, May 19, 2025 surrounded by family. Born March 9, 1933, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, he was the beloved son of the late Frank and Zena (nee Gaspari) Damiani, Sr. and the loving husband to the late Carol (nee Obniski) Damiani and selfless, loving, dedicated father to Christopher Damiani, Maria Damiani-Campisano, (Joseph J. Campisano) Gina Scheetz Phifer (Harry Phifer) and Lisa Hochfelder (Adam Hochfelder); he was a cherished grandfather to Andrew, Evan, Luke, Allie, Henry & Preston. He was preceded in death by his two brothers; Frank and Ron and his sister Mary Ann Damiani. Ray was part of the "Greatest Generation." He proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard the Coral Sea from 1951-1955 during the Korean War, then at night put himself through college courses, and went on to become a successful salesman for 31 years with Prudential Insurance Company; he owned his own insurance agency Damiani-Johnson for many years, and enjoyed a fun-filled active retirement. Though he loved what he did professionally, his greatest accomplishment by far and true success in life was as a family man, neighbor and friend. He always said "To whom much is given, much is expected"; "There is never any reason to be in a bad mood"; and "What good is anything you have, if you cannot share it." This is the truly great person he was. He adored his family, held a unique, special bond with each of his children and grandchildren, and loved his best friend of 87 years, Gene Catagnus, whom he met in the first grade at Holy Savior age 5. Ray always had a radiant smile on his face and he had an easy, flawless way of making you feel important, special, and better about yourself after you spoke with him. He was a devout Catholic and true Christian; helping everyone and anyone who needed it in every way possible, whether it be financially, emotionally, physically, but humbly never spoke of his unending charitable deeds and selfless sacrifices. His unwavering commitment to neighbors, family and community, while living his authentic and sincere Christian values, was at the core of who he was and how he lived each day. He loved life, the beauty of nature, the sound of the birds, the sunshine, and always found the positive side in all things and in all situations. He loved to tell funny stories, and oftentimes created the funny story himself along the way not even realizing it; yet, during life's challenges and times of struggle, he knew just how to share a message of hope, kindness, inspiration and wisdom. He and Carol loved to entertain and were always at the center of hosting every party, gathering, holiday or celebration with all their many countless friends and family throughout their entire lives. They were as kind, selfless, sincere and generous as people come; sharing all they had with all they knew, whether at Barbara Drive in East Norriton or at their beach home in Sea Isle City, NJ. Ray loved to read and learn; he was a great patriot, he was passionate about sports, politics, gardening, his fig trees, making his famous cheesesteaks, and Thursday night outings with Uncle Gene. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and best friend Gene, and numerous others who will deeply miss him. Relatives and friends are invited to share in Ray's Life Celebration on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 9 AM to 10:50 AM at St. Helena's Roman Catholic Church in Blue Bell, PA. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM at the church. Entombment will be in St. Patrick's Mausoleum. Family services are by Boyd-Horrox-Givnish of East Norriton. Donations can be made to St. Jude's Childrens Cancer Research Center, Wounded Warriors, and/or Tunnels to Tower Foundation in Ray's honor. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Raymond, please visit our floral store.