Raymond Srour Sr.

Born on November 29, 1927, Raymond embodied the spirit of the Greatest Generation. A generation defined by courage, sacrifice, and deep love of country. As a young man, he answered the call to serve during World War II, becoming a United States Marine—a title he carried with pride for the rest of his life. To Raymond, being a Marine was not something that ended with service; it was part of who he was. His respect and admiration for the military, especially the Marines, never faded.

Raymond had an enduring fascination with history, particularly the events of the Second World War that shaped his generation. It was common to find him reading Leatherneck magazine, studying books about the war, or watching documentaries about the battles and heroes of that era. And if you spent enough time with him, you could be sure that one of his war stories would eventually make its way into the conversation—often when you least expected it.

Throughout his life, Raymond served his country in more ways than one. For many years he worked for the federal government in roles he spoke about only sparingly. His children often joked that their father seemed to have stepped out of a James Bond novel—deeply involved in government work but always careful not to reveal too much. While they sometimes wished they knew more, there was also a sense of pride and excitement in having a father whose work carried such mystery.

After his service, Raymond built a multifaceted career that reflected his discipline, intelligence, and quiet determination including his service, for many years, where he excelled as an air traffic controller. A profession requiring focus, discipline, and calm under pressure. His dedication and excellence in that role earned him numerous awards and the respect of those who worked with him.

He was also a skilled builder who spent many years constructing homes—work that left a lasting influence on his son Raymond Jr., who followed a path into the world of real estate.

Beyond his professional life, Raymond remained deeply engaged with the world around him. In the 1980s and 1990s, Raymond dove deeply into local politics, engaging passionately with community leaders and never shying away from sharing his strongly held opinions on the state of American and world affairs. Whether the conversation turned to past wars or present challenges, you could always count on Raymond for a thoughtful, fervent take—delivered with conviction and a deep sense of duty. Many of the most prominent political figures in Central Florida in the 1980’s owe their success to him managing their campaign or significant insight he provided during their runs for office.Raymond always had a perspective—and he was never shy about sharing it.

Above all, Raymond loved his country. His patriotism was not quiet or casual; it was constant and heartfelt. He believed deeply in the ideals of America and remained fiercely proud of the nation he served throughout his long life.

Raymond was preceded in death by his brothers Albert, Isaac, and his sisters Vera and Rebecca.

He is survived by his his brother Elliot, his loving children, Raymond Jr., Noelle, and Sheree, who will forever cherish the lessons, stories, humor, and strength he shared with them, as well as by his loving girlfriend, Kathy, the love of his life.

He also survived by, and deeply loved and cherished his wonderful Grandchildren: Alex, TJ, Bryce, Chloe and Nathan.

Raymond lived nearly a century marked by service, conviction, and an unshakable devotion to the country he loved. His life stands as a reminder of a generation that answered the call of duty and carried that sense of responsibility for the rest of their days.

In his final months, on several occasions, he requested to pray the prayer to Jesus to save his soul.

He will be deeply missed, remembered with pride, and honored for the life he lived.

Semper Fi, Dad. Rest easy knowing your duty was done, and your country—and your children—are better for it.

A visitation will be held at Baldwin-Fairchild Goldenrod Funeral Home, 7520 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, Florida 32792, on March 26, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with the Funeral Service taking place there the same day at 6:00 pm.

A Committal Service with Military Honors will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US-1, Mims, FL 32754, US, on March 27, 2026, at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marine Corps Association at https://www.mca-marines.org/become-a-member/.