Raymond DiGianni

Raymond Anthony DiGianni, 66, of Clinton, CT, passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2025, in the same childhood home he grew up in and continued to call home for most of his life. Born in Hartford, CT on February 11, 1959, Ray was a lifelong resident of Clinton, known for his quirky humor, craftmanship, and caring heart.

Ray was a talented woodworker and cabinet maker who spent much of his life self-employed, working from his garage on custom cabinetry and home renovation projects. He took pride in helping others, especially when it came to remodeling kitchens for a few of his children’s homes, a true labor of love.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 36 years, Dawn Marie DiGianni, who passed away in 2021 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Ray was a devoted and compassionate caregiver throughout her illness, always by her side with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their bond was filled with affection, banter, and genuine companionship.

Ray experienced profound loss over the years, having also been predeceased by his sons Joshua DiGianni (1978 to 2017) and Justin DiGianni (1985 to 2020), and his granddaughter Isabella “Bella” Lynn DiGianni (2006 to 2019). Despite the heartache, Ray remained thoughtful and generous, known for sending cards year-round, often with a small gift or pet treat tucked inside to bring a smile to someone’s face.

He found comfort in the little things: cheering on the Red Sox (and teasing Dawn, a Yankees fan), watching NASCAR and UConn basketball, and keeping in touch with extended family, his favorite cousins in New Hampshire and friends through texts and heartfelt gestures. Ray had a special fondness for animals, and his recent puppy, affectionately named “Big Papi,” brought him companionship and joy.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Jordan DiGianni Venezio, and her husband, Albert Venezio, of Clinton, CT, along with their son, Luca Justin Venezio, Ray’s treasured grandson and a true source of joy in his later years. He is also survived by his oldest son, Jason DiGianni of Goffstown, NH, and Jason’s daughters, Miah and Lacey DiGianni, whom he never stopped thinking of them and always carried them in his heart.

He leaves behind his brothers Vincent “Vinny” DiGianni and wife Aina of Clinton, CT, and James “Jim” DiGianni of Guilford, CT; his nieces and nephews Austin, Joseph, Dante, Corbin (Stephanie), and Hayley (Issac); and many extended family members, cousins and childhood friends who will remember his thoughtfulness, creativity, and one-of-a-kind personality.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Marcella (Ouellette) DiGianni and Raymond Anthony DiGianni Sr.

He will be remembered as a simple man with a big heart, who showed love in small but deeply meaningful ways, and whose life, though marked by loss, was filled with love, humor, and quiet strength.

Please join us to celebrate Ray’s life during calling hours at Swan Funeral Home in Clinton, CT, on Monday, June 23rd, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes acts of kindness in Ray’s spirit, whether through a card, a shared story, or a treat for a pet.