Vincent M. Raucci

Vincent Michael, "Vinnie" Raucci, age 91, peacefully passed away in his sleep Friday morning, December 27, 2024 in Naples, FL. Vinnie was the son of the late Paul Raucci and Anna Raucci (DiMaio) of New Haven, CT, and brother to the beloved Ralph Raucci who resides in Stuart, FL.

He is survived by his incredible wife of 56 years Patricia A. Raucci (Cricco), as well as four children, Anne Raucci of Naples, FL, Vincent Raucci Jr. of New Mexico, Cindy Hero of Naples, FL, and Anthony P. Raucci, of Naples, FL, along with six grandchildren (Joseph and John Illingworth), (Alyssa and Vincent Raucci III), (Arabella and Anthony Raucci Jr.), three nephews, two nieces, and five great grandchildren.

Vinnie began his early life in the Grand Avenue area of New Haven, and at the age of 18, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. during the Korean War. Vinnie quickly rose to the rank of Sergeant, and after leaving the armed services, came home to New Haven, CT, and felt the need to serve his own community. Vinnie became a decorated police officer on the Hamden, CT Police force for 24 years. During his tenure, he received over 30 accommodations for his superior police work on various criminal cases. His last rank was Captain of the Detective Bureau where he and his fellow officers solved numerous high-profile crimes. In addition, Vinnie was a member of UNITAS for 20 years, as well an Honorary Member of the Italian-American Club of Hamden for 25 years. In 1977, Vinnie received "The Man of the Year" award. He also was an active member of the Yale Golf Course and Wallingford Country Club. In Vinnie's spare time, when we wasn't doing police work, he was an avid water-skier!

After retiring from the police force, and the career that was his true calling, he took on the position of Director of Operations and Head of Security for Yale University's British Art Museum. His love of art flourished, along with his ever present yearning to protect and serve. Then, after 18 years at Yale, Vinnie decided it was time to officially retire, and in 1996, he and the love of his life packed up and moved to Naples, FL for sunnier skies. It wasn't long after, many of his CT friends and family members followed. Vinnie was known for his charisma, his love of people, and had a gift for 'bringing people' together. Shortly after the move to Naples, he quickly made new friends and decided to work part time at Tiburon Golf Club at The Ritz Carlton; He loved inspiring the younger generation, and cherished his time in different roles at the club, as well as playing golf and tennis any time he desired.

Vinnie also served on the Board of Directors for his own community at The Village Walk. In his spare time, Vinnie loved boating, especially with his son Anthony and grandson Anthony Jr. He also loved a good cigar!

Through it all, everyone who knew Vinnie, knew his TRUE love was that of "family." He had always longed to have his family close in proximity during those latter years in life. One by one, his wish came true. Vinnie's heart was always filled, especially when his grandchildren were with him. He loved telling them his old 'war' stories, and of course loved the sleepovers at Noanie and Poppy's house.

But there was no other favorite time for Vinnie, than carrying on his mother Anna's tradition of Christmas Eve, and the Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes. Each year, Vinnie relished being surrounded by the nearest and dearest to him. God honored his final wish this year.

"Vinnie...Captain...Daddy...Poppy," we miss you.

Please help us celebrate a life well lived. Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, January 2nd from 8:30am-10:30am at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Avenue North, Naples, FL 34108.

A Memorial Mass will follow at 11:00am at St. John the Evangelist Church, 625 111th Avenue North, Naples, FL 34108.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association. PO Box 840692-Dallas, TX 75284-0692