Obituary of Raymond J. Catapano

In Lieu of Flowers, Donations May Be Made To: 

St. Jude Children's Hospital

Covenant House

Raymond Catapano, 96, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in New Hyde Park, New York, surrounded by family. Born on January 31, 1930, in Queens, New York, Ray lived a long and extraordinary life marked by dedication to his family, his faith, and a lifelong commitment to education and service.

Ray's parents immigrated from Italy. He was the youngest of thirteen and the first to attend college.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and went on to receive an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business. His professional journey spanned nearly seven decades and was defined by both excellence and reinvention. He began with over 30 years in the mining industry, rising through the ranks to become Corporate Controller. During this time, he discovered a passion for teaching that would shape the second half of his career. He served as an adjunct professor at Elizabeth Seton College and volunteered with Covenant House, where he taught budgeting to homeless youth.

In what he called his “semi-retirement,” Ray embarked on a second career that would last more than 25 years at Molloy University. There, he became a beloved Accounting Professor and directed a business simulation program that helped students apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Later, as a TRiO Counselor, he mentored students with disabilities, low incomes, and those who were the first in their families to attend college. Ray took deep pride in helping students build confidence and find their paths forward. His impact on their lives was profound and enduring.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 73 years, Joan Catapano; their four children: Raymond Catapano Jr. (Julie), Robert Catapano (Josephine), Lisa Catapano, and Lauren Catapano; eight grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. His family was the center of his world, and he found immense joy in being present for every milestone. He was the definition of a proud grandfather - always volunteering to babysit, tutor, help with school drop-offs and cheering at games and recitals.

A man of many talents and boundless curiosity, Ray embraced life with energy and grace. He loved reading, music, dancing with Joan, traveling, attending the theater, and most of all—spending time with those he loved. A true renaissance man, he could sew dresses without patterns after watching his seamstress mother work; he built furniture, reupholstered chairs, fixed anything around the house, designed living spaces, installed floors and moldings, painted walls and hung wallpaper with precision. His green thumb created vibrant gardens filled with flowers and vegetables that he eagerly shared with others.

Ray also had a creative spirit. He made floral arrangements for special occasions, helped redecorate his family's homes and crafted picture collage videos to celebrate loved ones’ milestones. His homemade ice cream cakes became legendary among family gatherings.

Even into his late 80s, Ray remained active.  He walked daily, practiced yoga and mindfulness and never stopped learning. A devoted Catholic with strong faith and an open heart, Ray lived by example. He was humble yet strong; firm yet fair; compassionate yet principled. He was known for his radiant smile, his wit, his intelligence and his rare ability to make people feel truly seen and valued.

Raymond Catapano was deeply loved by all who knew him. His legacy is one of generosity, integrity, wisdom, and unwavering love for family and community. He leaves behind not only cherished memories but also countless lives made better through his kindness, generosity, and guidance.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of service for generations to come.