WILMINGTON — Raymond Joseph Jacques, known affectionately as Ray, passed away on August 10, 2024, in Wilmington, North Carolina from complications with pneumonia and ALS.
Born on May 5, 1957, in Salem, Massachusetts, Ray’s warmth and kindness touched all who knew him. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by those who loved him.
Ray was predeceased by his loving parents, Reno and Marianne Jacques and a stepson Ronnie Sleeper. He is survived by his loving wife Karen, his son Justin and daughter-in-law Hein Jacques, daughter Vanessa Jacques, stepsons Doug Sleeper and Dan Sleeper and daughter-in-law Christine Sleeper. Grandsons, Keith, Brody, Mason, Cody and Ryan Sleeper, step grandson, Edward Mills. Granddaughters, Kristen (Michael) Shook, Mikaela (Cody) Hickey and 5 great grandchildren.
Also survived by his siblings, Rena, Burnett, Irene Jacques Hunt/brother-in-law Joe Hunt, Reverend Roger Jacques Carol Jacques-Dow and brother-in-law Steve Dow, and sister-in- law Donna McKay, brother- in- law Gilbert Whitmore/ wife Pauline, Brother-in-law Randy Whitmore/wife Lizza.
He attended Saint Joseph’s high school in Salem Massachusetts and then proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. It was very seldom you would see Ray without wearing clothing depicting an emblem of the Marine Corps, having adhered to their motto: “Once a Marine, always a Marine”
Once out of the service he began his career in the wholesale food business. He worked at Bozzuto’s Inc. in Cheshire CT for 30 plus years starting as buyer for bakery/deli and meat and worked his way up to Director of Sales.
He also worked for Associated Grocers of Maine in Gardner, Maine for several years. He loved working closely with the retailers and vendors, they became more like family and great friends.
Whereas Ray thoroughly enjoyed life and family and loved to pull a prank for a good laugh, his passion was his association with the Special Olympics. He organized and participated in many events to raise money for and honor the athletes. Doing the lobster dip in Maine January 1st each year and collecting toys for tots were just a couple of ways.
In his heart of hearts, he simply wanted to share his happiness and that it would be infectious among others. Ray believed the manner by which we care for each other is pinnacle to humanity.
As His wishes were to have his ashes scattered in the ocean, there will be no formal service.
