Raymond Philippe Encarnacion

Raymond Phillippe “RP” Encarnacion, loving husband and father, passed away on October 7, 2020, at the age of 38.

Raymond was known for his infectious laugh, bright smile, and his easy ability to connect genuinely and personally with all he met. From the ways he regularly checked in with old friends, built and maintained new relationships at work and in life, and acted as the much-loved ringleader of his generation of his large extended family, everyone knew that he always put in the hard work to care deeply and make others feel seen.

He was a die-hard New York Knicks fan and a music-lover whose tastes encompassed neo soul, dancehall reggae, alternative rock, and the 90's golden era of Hip Hop. He thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing with friends over a quality bottle of Irish whiskey. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, whether at a restaurant, at home, or while relaxing somewhere breezy and warm. 

RP was born on September 11, 1982 in Manila to Ramoncito and Olivia. After immigrating early in life to Jersey City, he grew up in Westfield, NJ. He graduated from Westfield High School and went on to earn a BS and MA in Education from Seton Hall University. While at Seton Hall, he promoted cultural awareness and strengthened community ties among young Filipino Americans as the vice president of the Filipino League at Seton Hall (FLASH). He was active in the Catholic Church, where he individually mentored peers through the youth and singles ministries of Bukas Loob sa Dios (BLD) in the Archdiocese of Newark.

In his career, Raymond was a hard worker who continued to connect with others and create community. He started as a teacher, with his work at St. Patrick’s School in Jersey City being written about in The New York Times: “He moves around his classroom in perpetual, purposeful motion, and the straining hands and quivering fingers of pupils waiting to answer his questions attest to his success.” In 2012, he successfully changed careers and worked his way up to become a Private Client Banker – First Vice President at the 55 Water Street Chase Branch in downtown New York.

His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who loved him.

RP is survived by his parents Chito and Olive, by his sister Isabelle, by his wife Rachelle, and by his sons Caleb and Alex aged 11 and 7, for whom he did everything.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to his family can be made at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-raymond-rp-encarnacion

After the burial at St Helen's, the funeral procession will pass by Raymond's house at 292 Bloomingdale Avenue Cranford NJ 07016 which will then go directly to St Gertrude RC Cemetery located at 52 Inman Avenue, Colonia NJ 07067. 

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