Raphael J. Tomich

Raphael J. Tomich, 83, of Sayville, NY, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Saturday, August 23, 2025.  Raised in East Rockaway, Ray graduated from St. Agnes Cathedral HS in Rockville Centre and St. John’s University.  Ray worked in management for NY Telephone, a Safety Inspector for OSHA & Thrasher Marine in his retirement years.

Beloved son of the late Samuel and Elvira Tomich. Devoted wife, Francine for 60 years. Loving dad to Michael and wife Nancy of Garden City and Kristen Tomich and Chris Bailey of Sayville. Beloved Pop-Pop to Christopher, Chad, Connor, and Maya. Big brother to Jeanne (Pete) Swanson, the late Marilyn (the late Art) DeWolf, John (the late Kathy) Tomich and Tom (Scott) Tomich, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Proud Naval Officer during the Vietnam era. Followed by 20 years in the Reserves retiring as a LCDR. He continued his service to his fellow Veterans as the Chaplain of the Sayville American Legion Post 651.

A dedicated member and Past Grand Knight of St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus 2458. He put God and family first passing onto them his engaging and caring manner. His kindness made him a cherished friend to all who knew him. He was larger than life who offered wisdom and guidance. He was admired and respected by all.

Family was everything to him. His two favorite happy places were in his boat on the Great South Bay and at 142 Loop Drive.

Relatives and friends will gather on Thursday, August 28th, 4-8 p.m. at Raynor & D’Andrea Funeral Home in West Sayville.  A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 29th at 11 a.m. at The Church of the Good Shepherd in Holbrook and interment will follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery in Sayville.

In lieu of flowers, please do a good deed for someone who needs a helping hand.