LELAND — Raymond Paul Zeliznik, 78, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 3, 2025, in Leland, North Carolina. Born on August 2, 1947, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Ray spent his early years in Roselle, NJ, where he developed the values and skills that guided him throughout his life.
In 1973, Ray married Linda Caprio of Union, NJ. Together, they shared 52 years of partnership, raising a family shaped by Ray’s strength, determination, and the tough love he believed in.
Ray dedicated forty years to his career as a Maintenance Mechanical/Electrician, earning a reputation for his remarkable ability to build and repair anything. He passed these skills on to his sons, guiding them during their younger years.
A passionate outdoorsman, Ray enjoyed archery, fishing, hunting and was a devoted member of the Eldred Beagle Club in Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. His enthusiasm for nature led him across North America, where he experienced many hunting adventures. He held a deep respect for all animals and cherished observing them in their natural habitats.
Ray’s journey took him from Hackettstown, NJ, where he lived for 12 years, to Saylorsburg, PA, for 25 years, before settling in North Carolina. He is survived by his wife, Linda; his sons, Raymond Jr. of Bradford Woods (wife, Ini, and daughters Kassiani and Phoebe), Todd of Frederick, MD (wife, Melissa, sons, Colton and Cade, and daughter, Collins); and sister, Gloria Pantina of Gillette, NJ.
Ray will be remembered for his strength, his skill, and his appreciation for the outdoors. His legacy lives on in his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Services are not currently scheduled; any updates will be reflected here.
