Obituary of Raymond Cala

Ray Cala, 73, of Manalapan, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He was born in Manhattan and grew up in Pelham Bay in the Bronx. 

A larger-than-life personality, Ray leaves behind a legacy of immense love and laughter. His incredible strength, optimism and enthusiasm for life was a source of inspiration that was felt by everyone who knew him. A devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle, he was always a rock for his family and friends. 

Ray had a successful career in finance for over 45 years and retired as Deputy Treasurer of Nordea Bank in New York City. Post-retirement he was a loan officer for Cross Country Mortgage and served proudly as Deputy Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus.

Ray was predeceased by his parents Michael and Anna Cala; and brother Albert Cala. He is survived by his loving wife Maria of 50 years; sons Michael (Kathryn) and Gerry (Lorena); daughter Jennifer (Dan); and grandchildren Juliana, Stanley, Francesca, Marcella, Meghan, Daniel and Christian.                             

Friends and family are invited to visit on Sunday, July 16, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 5:00PM to 9:00PM, at Freeman Manalapan Marlboro Funeral Home, 344 Route 9 North. A funeral liturgy will be held at St. Gabriel's MAIN Church on Monday, July 17 at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. Gabriel’s Cemetery and Mausoleum. 

The family would appreciate memorial donations be made to support the work of Ray’s oncologist, Dr. Tom Marron, MD, PhD at The Early Phase Trials Unit of The Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai. Donations can also be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or St. Gabriel’s Parish. To leave a condolence or find directions, visit www.freemanfuneralhomes.com