Waddington: Lyman John Raleigh Sr., age 76 passed away Friday, March 3, 2017 at Claxton Hepburn Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Family and friends may call at the Phillips Memorial Home, Waddington Monday afternoon (March 6, 2017) from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. and 9:00 A.M. Tuesday (March 7, 2017) until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday (March 7, 2017) at St. Mary’s Church Waddington with Msgr. Harry K. Snow officiating and Deacon Daniel B. McGrath co-officiating. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family in the parish cemetery.
John was born to the late Lyman Foster and Lousita (Kearney) Raleigh on January 10, 1941 in Brockport, NY. He was a graduate of Aquinas Institute in Rochester, NY. John was a proud American who served his country and was honorably discharged from his services from the United States Navy. John married Edna Mae Saylor on May 27, 1961 at the Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois. After his service in the Navy John joined the New York State Police and served over 20 years retiring in 1988. Returning back to school John studied at Mater Dei College where he obtained his associate degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing and later operated his own business, The Optical Outlet, in Ogdensburg for nearly 10 years.
John was a man of many talents, a fantastic cook who could hold an intelligent conversation while cracking up people with his sharp wit. His woodcarving, painting and photography skills were enjoyed the most by his loving family. John is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 56 years, Edna and children Theresa Raleigh both of Waddington, Jennifer (Raleigh) Dellicicchi and son-in-law Alfred (AJ) Dellicicchi of Chelmsford, MA. John is also survived by grandchildren Vincent Raleigh, Ben and Julia Cochrane, Rachel Raleigh and Rocco Dellicicchi and a sister Jackie Bristow along with several nieces and nephews.
John was predeceased by a son Lyman John Raleigh Jr. in November of 2016, and siblings Paul “Buzz” Raleigh and Betty Lou Goodrich. Those wishing to make a donation or memorial contribution in John’s name may do so to the Aquinas Institute; 1127 Dewey Ave, Rochester, NY 14613, St. Mary’s Church, Waddington or The Special Olympics; 1133 19th Street NW Washington, DC 20036-3604. Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.PhillipsMemorial.com