Raymond Arroyo

Raymond Arroyo was born on February 25, 1949, in The Bronx, New York—a birthplace he wore as a badge of honor, one that only fellow New Yorkers could truly appreciate. He passed away on August 25, 2025 at the age of 76. As a teenager, Ray attended the New York School of Printing, where he was both President of the Honor Society and a competitive member of the swim team. His childhood was filled with simple joys: playing handball in neighborhood alleys with friends and enjoying Italian ices on Arthur Avenue. Following high school, Ray proudly served in the United States Navy for three years. It was there that he discovered his passion for aviation, rising to the rank of Aviation Machinist and working on various aircraft, including jet helicopters. His service took him to Pensacola, Florida, Mountain View, California, and Barber’s Point, Hawaii, until his honorable discharge in 1973. After returning to New York, Ray built his career as a printer before relocating to Delaware with his young family. There, he became a first-time business owner, opening his own printing company, Specialty Graphics. In Delaware, Ray was a hands-on father, dedicating countless hours to his daughters’ school and sporting events. Known fondly as a “Cheer Dad,” he could often be found on the sidelines, proudly shouting out every cheer by heart. Ray’s professional journey later included working as a Personal Banking Officer at MBNA before returning to self-employment with his remodeling business, Basements and More, LLC. It was during this chapter of life that he met his wife, Mary Ann. The two shared an instant connection and went on to build 19 years of love and companionship together. A lifelong craftsman, Ray’s woodworking brought joy to many. He created wooden motorcycles, dollhouses, and other treasures—many of which became beloved Christmas gifts for his grandchildren. His talents also took him to local craft shows, where he enjoyed sharing his work with the community. In 2006, Ray began a long and courageous battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Despite his illness, he lived with determination, often declaring, “I don’t have time for this!” His days were filled with projects around the “Ponderosa,” splitting wood, dancing to country music, enjoying trips to Delaware Park with Mary Ann, fishing with his grandchildren, and cheering on his beloved Philadelphia Eagles every Sunday. Most recently, Ray was nominated Vice President of the Brookside Community Center, where he gave back to the neighborhood by focusing on projects such as Little League management and initiatives to restore a strong sense of community. Ray is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, and their sweet dog, Minnie, who stayed cradled in his arms during his final days of hospice. He is also survived by his daughters, Denise (Chris) Blum and Susan (Dave) Ross; grandchildren: Chase and Cassidy Blum, and Madeline, Jacob, and Lily Ross; stepsons: Mark Steele (children Colton and Blake), and Michael Steele (son Dylan); and the memory of his stepdaughter, Jennifer Hearn (children Kira and Ryan). He is also remembered by his sister, Christine Arroyo, nephews Angelo and Patrick Arroyo, and niece Nicole Arroyo. Ray’s legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the friends who loved him, and the many lives touched by his warmth, humor, and generosity. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, September 9 from 9:30–11 AM at the Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, 635 Churchmans Road, Newark, DE 19702. A service in celebration of Ray’s life will follow at 11 AM. Burial will take place at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. A committal ceremony with Military Honors will be held at 1 PM. For directions or to send an online condolence please visit www.stranofeeley.com

Raymond Arroyo

February 25, 1949 - August 25, 2025

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