Raymond Townsend Ryder Jr.

Ray was the eldest of four children and was born in Brooklyn, NY to Raymond and Cora Ryder. He relocated to Palm Bay, Florida with Florence in 1983 to give their children, Raymond and Teresa, a better life. In his earlier years, Ray served in the Merchant Marines for three years before embarking in a career in the food industry as a store manager for Food Fair and Pantry Pride stores.

Everyone who knew Ray, including the residents and staff at Bethesda Assisted Living, said he was a caring, generous man who loved to bring laughter to every person he met. His brother Bob said, “Ray was never selfish. He was always free to give – without ever expecting anything in return.”

Ray was a devoted husband and father. He and his wife cared for their special needs son, Raymond until he went to be with the Lord in 2009 at 45 years old. Ray also was a devoted caretaker of his wife for many years after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Ray and Florence were married for 49 years until Florence passed away on March 29, 2013.

Raymond is survived by his loving and devoted daughter Teresa; his son-in-law Danny; his grandson Hunter and his brother Bobby.

A Celebration of Life for Raymond will be held in the Church at Bethesda, 2800 Fordham Drive, Palm Bay, Florida on Saturday, July 30 at 1pm.