Raymond R Whittaker

Raymond R. Whittaker, lovingly known as "Ray" to family and friends, peacefully passed away on September 7, 2025, at Methodist Hospital. Born on January 30, 1945, Ray was a lifelong resident of South Philadelphia and a proud United States Air Force Veteran, serving honorably in the Pacific Theater.

Ray lived a full and devoted life, always guided by his love for family. He was a graduate of Bishop Neumann High School. At the age of 23, he married the love of his life, Pat, his high school sweetheart. They had a beautiful life and raised two daughters. Ray later retired from Sunoco Refinery, where he worked as a head operator for the Darby Creek Tank Farm. Known for his "hands of gold," Ray could build or fix anything and was the one everyone turned to when something needed care or repair. Pat and Ray loved the time they spent together at the Delaware shore in their summer home. His happiest days were spent fishing--especially alongside his family aboard his boat, "Toots." The shore was his sanctuary, and time there with family brought him his greatest joy. Ray and Pat were world travelers safari's in Africa, riding camels in Egypt cruises to Europe. They loved their adventures.

Ray also had a passion for cooking, filling his kitchen with delicious meals and memories. Together with his daughter, he even created a cookbook of their favorite recipes and together enjoyed putting together puzzles and giving them as gifts. He will be fondly remembered for his monthly dinners with retired friends, his laughter in the garage with his closet pals and the dart games that brought so many smiles. His warmth, humor and steadfast love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife Pat and his mother, Antoinette (nee Kazelskis) Whittaker. He leaves behind his loving daughters, Patti (Jim) Gorman and Susan (Jonathan) Whittaker-Potts; his cherished grandchildren, Jim Gorman and Avery Gorman; and his furry companions, Cole and Pie. He will also be deeply missed by his sister-in-law Theresa (Jack) Morley; his nephews Michael Morley and Matthew (Kathleen) Morley by cousins, Bobby (Kristy) Kazelskis, Robin (John) Thompson and Lisa (James) Banning. Relatives, friends, members of the Knights of Columbus, and St. Casimir CWV Post 652 are invited to gather Friday morning from 8-10:10 a.m. at the Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Sts. His Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Burial will take place at a later date at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, where Ray will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ray's honor to PA Wounded Warriors, Inc., 1117 Country Club Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011.