Obituary of Raymond L. Perry

Raymond L. Perry Jr., of Hackensack passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at the age of 75 years. He was born on 8/24/1948 in Hackensack, NJ where he lived his whole life, often fondly speaking of family gatherings that consisted of home cooked-home grown Italian meals and vibrant conversations while growing up on Kansas Street. In 1969, Ray married his high school sweetheart, Mary Grieco, who grew up in the same neighborhood on McKinley Street. Ray was a member of the Hackensack High School cross-country team from 1963-1965 and earned a spot in the school's hall of fame. Ray and Mary raised their 2 sons in Hackensack, Rick and Jay, enjoying family vacations to Wildwood every summer. Ray did not have a mean bone in his body and always remained positive, humorous and philosophical through the good and bad times. His personality was truly one of a kind, always fun to be around, and everyone who met him couldn't help but instantly like and love him. Prior to retiring in 2011, he worked as a School Custodian for Grant School in Ridgefield Park, NJ for 28 years where he was loved by staff and students. Ray was an avid photographer and videographer who enjoyed making family videos and photo albums. Before it was popular, he was creating video collages with a unique style. This hobby also led to filming both sons' bands performing in seedy Newark and NYC clubs. Unlike most parents who distance themselves from such activities, Ray allowed and encouraged the boys to practice in their home and garage from the late 80's through the 90's. Ray's greatest passion was his family, especially his grandchildren, keeping thousands of photos and developing a loving and special relationship that will be sorely missed. Beloved husband to Mary A. (nee Grieco) for 55 years. loving father to Richard Perry and his wife Jennifer and Jason Perry and His wife Jessie Ribustello. Cherished grandfather of Perry, Jessica, Caroline, Samantha Marie and Cassandra-Lyn. Dearest brother of John Perry and the late Donna Perry and his late brother-in-law Angelo Grieco and his surviving wife Diane Grieco. The Funeral Service will begin on Friday, January 26, 1:00 PM at the G. Thomas Gentile Funeral Home, 397 Union Street, Hackensack. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Hackensack. The family will receive friends on Friday morning from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM for visitation. To send condolences, directions or further information visit http://www.gentilefuneralservice.com