Ronaldo Crespo

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronaldo Crespo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and Navy veteran. Ronaldo, affectionately called Ray by his wife Thereasita, was born on October 24, 1960. He passed, surrounded by family, on April 12, 2024, at the age of 63 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Ray leaves behind his soulmate, his loving wife, Thereasita (Esguerra), of 43 years, their son Ronaldo Crespo Jr. and his wife Jennifer, their son Marcus, and their daughter Porscha, as well as their grandchildren Ariana, Ronaldo III, and Thomas. He is survived by his brother Junior and nephews Hector and Brandon. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law Michael (Valarie) Esguerra, Robert (Theresa) Esguerra, Orlino Esguerra and sisters-in-law Merlinda (Art) Turner and Ferly Stoutenburg and their families. Additionally, he is survived by his stepsiblings Percida Torres, Rebecca Vargas, Eva Torres, Benjamin Torres, Amelia Bonilla, Mary Young, Nitza Louis and their families. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends spanning from Puerto Rico to New Jersey. He is preceded in death by his mother Antonia Crespo, his father Mariano Crespo, his stepmother Teresa Crespo, his mother-in-law Margarette Esguerra, and brother-in-law Kevin Stoutenburg.

Ray was born in Passaic, New Jersey to Mariano and Antonia Crespo. He is the younger brother of Mariano Crespo Jr, known to everyone as Junior, whom he loved dearly. His beloved mother passed away when Ray was twelve. He moved to Puerto Rico for several years before returning to Passaic where Ray attended and graduated from Passaic High School in 1978.

Ray proudly served in the United States Navy for 22 years, dedicating himself to protecting his country and serving with honor. His service with the Navy took him all over the world. He was stationed on the USS Dale (1978-1982) and at NAS Jax (1982-1985) in Jacksonville, Florida. Ray then transferred to Gulfport, Mississippi where he worked on the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 from 1985-1988. During his time as a Seabee, he completed a tour in Puerto Rico and in Okinawa, Japan. It was during his tour in Okinawa that it was announced that he had won the East Coast Sailor of the Year. Ray was then stationed at NAS Pensacola from 1988-1992. He also served on the USS John L. Hall from 1992-1995, at the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay from 1996-1999, and finally on the USS San Jose in Guam from 1999-2000. Ray retired from the navy on August 31st, 2000. He achieved the rank of Senior Chief, received three commendation medals, three Navy achievement medals, and the respect of every person who was honored to work with him. After retiring, Ray continued to support his country as an integrated logistic support manager with Naval Supply Systems Command until his retirement on September 30, 2023.

Ray was known for his kindness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his family and friends. Outside of his military service, he was passionate about football. While he supported his wife’s love of the Jacksonville Jaguars, it was the New York Giants that called to his heart and held his loyalty over the years. From car decals to winter snow jackets, Ray collected every New York Giants, as well as New York Mets, memorabilia that his wife would find. The only rival of his collection of Giants gear was his collection of penguins.

Ray’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his love and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. We will forever cherish the memories of Ray’s laughter, wisdom, unwavering love, and his passion for the New York Giants and penguins of all shapes and sizes.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on April 25th, with visitation from 3:00-5:00pm and services beginning at 5:00pm. The family welcomes you to join a reception following the services at the Lions Club of Arlington, where we will fellowship and celebrate Ray’s contribution to our lives. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their condolences, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

If you are looking for ways to support Ray’s family. A Gofundme has been created for donations to help pay for his final expenses. https://gofund.me/d62e3f4b

Ronaldo's funeral can be streamed the day of the service at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87867357138