Raymond R. Racunas

Raymond R. Racunas, 83, of Washington, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024, in Washington Hospital. He was born on January 19, 1941, in Monongahela, PA, to William and Mary Jurgaitis Racunas. He was a graduate of Monongahela High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from California University of Pennsylvania, and received his Master of Education degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He was a teacher in the Trinity Area School District for 35 years, teaching elementary grades at Wolfdale Elementary School for 19 years, and then social studies at Trinity Middle School for 16 years until his retirement in 1998. He never lost his love of sharing knowledge, especially with the children in his life. In January of 1972, he married Nancy Lee Johnson, with whom he shared 52 years of life. He was a member of St. James Parish and also attended services with his wife at the United Presbyterian Church of Claysville, where he was often complimented on his good singing voice. Over his lifetime he treasured family events and celebrations. He and his wife enjoyed traveling and visited 45 of 50 states and made two memorable trips to Europe. They also spent many happy times going on vacations with family and friends. He loved golfing with the Holy Ghost Golf League of Charleroi for many years. Lunching with the Trinity Area School District Retired Teachers was a special event, offering the chance to visit with former colleagues. National Pike Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, of which his wife is a member, welcomed him as a speaker and photographer of special events many times. He became an award-winning photographer, having his work publicly displayed on several occasions, and serving as president of the Washington Camera Club for 15 years. On June 18, 2024, he received the club’s Farkos Print of the Year trophy. Surviving, in addition to his wife, are his brother, Robert (Karen); brothers-in-law, David Johnson (Colleen) and Richard Johnson (Cheryl); 15 beloved nieces and nephews; 26 great- nieces and nephews; and almost 4 great-great nieces and nephews. Predeceasing him, in addition to his parents, are a sister, Carolyn Racunas Puglisi, and her husband, Donald Puglisi, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, Washington, on Thursday, July 11, at 10:00 a.m. Family and friends of all denominations are invited to attend. Interment will be private. Memorial gifts in honor of Ray may be sent to St. James Parish, 119 West Chestnut Street, Washington, PA 15301, United Presbyterian Church, Box 496, Claysville, PA 15323, or a charity of one’s choice.