Raymond DeLeon Martin was born on May 27th, 1942, on the island of Santurce, Puerto Rico, to Valentin and Trinidad DeLeon. Firstborn to his parents and a birthday gift to his mother, for she was born on the same day. When his father returned from World War 2, the family moved from Puerto Rico to New York City, NY. There, he received a Public School education, graduating from Haaren High School. Receiving not only his Diploma, he also won the William Harkness award for mastering Mathematics, and an award for Perfect Attendance. (4 years of high school without missing a day). Unfortunately, he never got a chance to serve in the Military due to epilepsy. In later years, he continued his education at the City College of New York, where he was awarded an Associate Degree in Business Administration and Management. His first job at the age of 12 was selling paper bags to customers leaving the Bodega. Raymond worked for the City of New York in several capacities for 10 years before landing a Supervisory position in the Central Complaints Bureau, where he retired after 35 years of service; he also worked for the United States Postal Service for 20 years. He retired from both jobs in 2001.
He relocated to Florida in 2001, where he continued to work, signing up with a temp agency. He worked two long-term jobs: the Southwest Florida International Airport and his favorite job, the Lee County Elections, where he traveled around the county and made friends with other retirees. In his younger years, he was active in his community, helping others find jobs, affordable apartments, and educational opportunities.
Raymond played the Clarinet. He loved being a DJ and appreciated all genres of music. He was also an avid New York Mets and wrestling fan. He was an inventor, always drawing and coming up with ideas for things that don’t exist yet. Raymond was a member of the Boys Club of New York, an honorary member of the Sheriffs' Association of Florida, President of an HOA, and a part of other entities. He was an avid reader of National Geographic and Astronomy magazines and books. Anything to do with space was his passion.
When he found out about Celestis, his written instructions upon his death were to send his ashes to space. He had so many anecdotes in his life, the one that will always stick with me is “Keeping me from living, is not gonna stop me from dying.” He had a passion for plants, always gardening and growing his vegetables. His last breath was in his garden. He was loved by all that he encountered. A man of strong will, independent nature, and simple taste. Will give you his last.
A great husband to Shelia, loving father to Shawn, Andre, Sheray, and Rayven, the best Grandpa and Pappa to Marcus, AJ, Jaylen, Desiree, Brennan, Mason, Jace, Jagger, and Jaxten, a big brother to sister Provi, a big brother and father to Henry, Raphael, and David. On May 8th, 2024, our hearts were broken. Raymond, you will forever be missed.
Dad/Grandpa/Love of My Life, you always looked up at the stars and wondered what it would be like to be among them. Finally, you are where you always wanted to be - AMONG THE STARS. Your spirit now drifts through the cosmos, free and eternal. We’ll look to the night sky and know you're home. With all of our Heart, Soul, and LOVE Forever Your Family and Blaze too!!
