Raymond Joseph Rusielewicz Senior

Raymond Joseph Rusielewicz, Sr., 80, of Central Islip, NY, was born on September 5, 1945, and passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by love with his family.

Ray was the beloved son of John and Genevieve Rusielewicz and the devoted brother of Lawrence “Larry” Rusielewicz. He was raised in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, where his faith took root early. As a young boy, Ray served as an altar boy at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, that marked the beginning of a lifelong devotion to his Roman Catholic faith.

Music was another defining part of Ray’s life. Continuing a proud family tradition started by his father John and his uncle Edward, Ray became a band leader and performed alongside his brother Larry as part of the Russ Brothers Orchestra, bringing joy to countless celebrations through polka music.

In 1966, Ray was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War and honorably served his country until 1968. Following his military service, he worked for Schaefer Beer and later dedicated many years as Chief Custodian for the Central Islip School District, from which he eventually retired.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret. Our mother, Marge, is our greatest example of what it means to be a spouse. She loved and served her husband faithfully in sickness and in health, until death did them part. She was selfless, devoted, steadfast, and relentless in her care and love, and her dedication to our father was unwavering.

Raymond was a proud and devoted father to his four children: sons Anthony, Randy, and Raymond Jr., and daughter Jean. He is also survived by his daughters-in-law, Gina, Rena, and Jennifer, and his son-in-law, Jimmy (deceased) and Joe. He was a deeply cherished grandfather to Anthony Jr., Joseph, Emily, John, Isabella, Raymond III, Olivia, and Violet, each of whom he loved beyond measure. He also leaves behind his loyal dog, Twiggs, who was never far from his side.

As we reflect on our father’s 80 years of life, we are filled with memories that could last two lifetimes, and we will continue to share them with one another. For nearly all of us, he was there at our first breath, and it was our great honor to love him, hold him, and comfort him as he took his last. In that sacred moment, the faith our earthly father lived by and our Heavenly Father prepared us for will carry us through at a time when our hearts are heavy.

Your love lives on through us. Gone from our sight, never from our hearts. Until we meet again in God’s presence. We know you’ll be waiting.

In accordance with Ray’s wishes, there will be no wake. A Celebration Mass in his memory will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter the Apostle Church, 70 Rockaway Street, Islip Terrace, NY 11752. Interment will follow at Calverton National Cemetery, Wading River, NY 11792.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at: www.woundedwarriorproject.org