Obituary of Raymond J. Beesley

Beesley, Raymond J. age 65 of Paterson at rest in Livingston on December 2, 2016. Beloved husband of Patricia (nee Sorden) Beesley. Loving father of Rachael Beesley, Patty Beesley-Ciarfella, Raymond Beesley, Christine Beesley, David Beesley and Caitlyn Beesley. Dear brother of Mary Ann Beesley and the late Sgt. Edward J. Beesley. Cherished grandfather of Frankie, Nicholas,Valentina, Ciara and Eamon. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Raymond was born in Paterson to Edward Beesley and Dorothy (nee Roe) Beesley. There he lived most of his life and raised his own family with his beloved wife Patricia. He was a Sheet Metal Worker for Local Union No. 137 for many years before retiring. He was a parishioner, Eucharistic Minister, and choir musician at St. Bonaventure R.C. Church, Paterson. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. Raymond played a professional Santa Claus for over 21 years winning the Best Santa Competition for over 15 years in a row. He will be most remembered for his charity work, gathering donations, visiting various hospitals, shelters, children's centers and nursing homes. It was his personal mission to bring joy and ease pain in the lives of those less fortunate. Raymond was a friend, neighbor and man who cared about everyone, especially his family. A man who would say hello to everyone who walked into Hillary Street Café while enjoying breakfast with his family on the weekends, a true Stoney Roader and definitely Santa. He was a man who selflessly brought hope, love, joy, kindness, belief and the chance to relive your childhood with the spirit of Christmas. Raymond was and is a shining example of humanity at its best, how we should all be in this world. This man was a true angel on Earth, who touched countless lives with his kindness. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Bonaventure R.C. Church, 174 Ramsey Street, Paterson,on Saturday at 9:30 AM. Interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Totowa. Friends may visit Friday 1-8 PM at St. Bonaventure R.C. Church, Paterson. Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd., Totowa is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations to Ray's Christmas Miracles would be appreciated, https://wwwgofundme.com/rays-christmas-miracles. For more information, go to www.festamemorial.com.