Raymond McCarthy

Raymond McCarthy, 71 of Newark NJ passed away on October 23, 2015 in Fort Lauderdale FL. Ray married his high school sweetheart, Judy Whalen of 52 years. For 38 of those years ,they lived in West Caldwell, NJ raising their family before moving to Monticello New York in 2003. Raising his children was his biggest accomplishment.

Ray had a big heart, and another accomplishment of his was in 2006 when he founded the nonprofit organization : Committees of the Families of War Veterans in Monticello NY. After reading a story in the local newspaper about a veteran who returned home from war, and was struggling to provide for his family, Ray felt the need to help. He gathered his friends together and worked hard to turn his idea into reality. During his time serving as founder, he was able to fund raise more than $65,000 to help dozens of families who were in need of assistance after returning from war. The organization expanded their services in 2009 when a food pantry was opened.

In lieu of flowers, Ray and his family would love donations in his memory to the organization. You may donate at www.familiesofwarveterans.org

Ray enjoyed the art of conversation and enjoyed making new friends wherever he went. One of his famous sayings that he will be remembered by "I'm almost fabulous."when asked how he was doing.


In 2010, Ray and Judy retired to Fort Lauderdale Florida. Ray is survived by his wife Judy, sons Brian and Ryan Dreher and daughters Joanne and Kelley and many nieces , nephews, great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by Shawn( son ) Helen (mother) Joseph (father) Barbara (sister).

A Private service for the family will be held on October 30, 2015 at Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation at 3889 Powerline Road Ft. Lauderdale ,FL 33309

Rays last wish was for his ashes to be scattered in the Delaware River. The family will be heading to NJ in the spring to fulfill his wishes. More information will be announced at a later date.

Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.