William F. Raney

Raney, William Francis Jr, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2021 at the age of 90, surrounded by his loved ones.  He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Margaret A. Raney (nee Beasley), his son William (Anna-Maria), his daughter Eileen, his son John and his sister Gertrude. He is the proud grandfather (Papa) of 8 and great grandfather of 21. 

Born and raised in New York during the depression, he appreciated the simple things in life.  Although he grew up in poverty, his memories of that time are nothing but positive.  He loved the community feeling of kids running on the streets, mothers sitting on the stoops and fathers playing cards.   He never complained about that time of his life, although it wasn’t an easy time.  

He graduated from Andrew Jackson High School as captain of the track team where he was the city champion in the half mile for two years in a row.   He received a track scholarship to St. John's University where he was also the captain of the track team and completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Business.

He proudly served his country as an Honor Guard in the Army.

He met his wife, Peggy, at the Community Gardens, where he asked her to dance and the rest is history!!!   They were married in 1954 and moved to Long Island where they raised their family.

Nothing was more important to him than his family.  He was a devoted and loving father to his own children who feel blessed to have had him.  He was a father figure to all the neighborhood children.   Everybody loved him!!!!   He was known for his cheerful greetings and witty personality.  He will be missed by all who knew him.

His only regret in life was not following his passion for music.  He played the piano, guitar and harmonica by ear.  He also wrote his own songs and sang.  At 80 years old he performed at open mic nights around town realizing a small part of his dream.

The St. James Funeral Home is serving the Family.

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