Raymond Joseph Celentano of Allen, Texas passed away on September 5, 2018 at the age of 83 after an extended and hard fought battle with Leukemia. He was born on December 9, 1934 to John Michael and Raffeala (Pizzo) Celentano in The Bronx, New York. Raymond married Nancy Maria Gregory on April 4, 1959 in The Bronx, New York. Raymond enjoyed playing cards with his friends and family, fishing, and was a skilled craftsman in his spare time. In his retirement, he enjoyed watching old black and white movies. Raymond was an avid New York Yankee fan and adapted to become a lover and supporter of his local Texas Rangers. He was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church.
Raymond was adored by all who met him, and his laughter was infectious. Despite his battle with cancer, Raymond's focus was always on the joys in life and never showed signs of anything but happiness. Raymond's kindness and compassion were only exceeded by his love for his wife and family. He was a true New Yorker in the sense that there was no battle he could not take on. Yes, there were times he bit off more than he could chew, but through it all, when there was doubt, he ate it up and spit it out. He faced it all and stood tall, and did it his way. His family will forever cherish the happy memories
Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Nancy Celentano of Allen, Texas; son, Michael Celentano and wife, Mary Jane of Allen, Texas; daughters, Michele Babnik and husband, Andrew of Putnam Valley, New York, Marlene Taccariello and husband, Anthony of Cortlandt Manor, New York and Maureen Carducci and husband, Robert of Cortlandt Manor, New York; grandchildren, Andrew Babnik, Jr. and wife, Krista, Amanda Fischelli and husband, John, Raymond Babnik and wife, Megan, Kirstin Celentano, Nicole Taccariello, Nicholas Carducci and Justin Carducci; great-grandchildren, Camille Fischelli, Evie Fischelli, Eliana Babnik; brother, Anthony Celentano and wife, Sanita; sister, Anna Moriarty; and numerous other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Elvira Barber.
No services are planned at this time.