Raymond Szpond, Jr. 84, passed away peacefully at Overlook Hospital. A lifelong resident of Elizabeth, NJ.

Ray honorably served his country as a decorated Marine Corp veteran and retired from a lifelong career in the Elizabeth Police Department, rising to the rank of Captain. Ray was a Life Member of PBA Local #4, the Superior Officers Association, Oak Ridge Sportsmen’s Association, NJ State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Arthur Killies Fishing Club and parishioner of St. Genevieve’s Roman Catholic Church.

Ray was a devoted husband to his childhood love, Dolores. His family was his world. He was a man defined by quiet honor and steady humility. His life was built on simple but enduring values: showing up when it mattered, doing what was right even when it was difficult and treating others with dignity and respect. Those who knew him will remember how he made people feel: supported, valued and seen. His presence was steady, his commitment sincere and his Catholic faith a guiding force throughout his life. He was a man’s man. A Marine.

He was predeceased by his wife Dolores. He is survived by his Daughter Christine O’Neill and husband Eric, Son Raymond Szpond and wife Laura, Grandchildren Chrissy, Christopher, Zach, Lauren, Aaron, Eric and Garret Great Grandchildren Grace and Luke, Brothers Ron and Walter and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Thursday, from 5-8pm at the Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Ave, Westfield, NJ  Graveside services will be on Friday at 10:30am at St Gertrudes Cemetery, Colonia.