Raymond P. Vassallie, 77, of Cream Ridge NJ, passed away on Thursday surrounded by his family.

Raymond was born and raised in Long Branch, graduating from Long Branch High School. Following high school, Raymond would go on to serve his country honorably in the Vietnam War. He earned many commendations including the Bronze Star. Upon his return, he took over his father’s taxi company as one of the owners of Paramount Cab. He married the love of his life, Kathy, in 1984. The two would settle in Long Branch to raise their family. Raymond was a lover of food, enjoying dining in the company of family and friends. He could often be found scouring the local flea markets for his next great find. Raymond was an avid amateur car mechanic and happily worked on his cars in the driveway. He was so skilled that his family often joked that if he couldn’t fix it, it must be broken.

While Raymond always did many things, he will be most remembered for the way he impacted the lives of those around him. He was incredibly thoughtful, selfless, and generous. He was always the first to volunteer to help anyone in need including strangers he just met. He did so with a smile and always his excellent sense of humor. He never asked for or wanted anything in return for his kind acts.

Raymond is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary Vassallie and his brother, James Vassallie.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Vassallie; his son, Raymond P.Vassallie Jr (RJ) of Long Branch and his daughter; Nicole Sivilli and her husband, Joe of Freehold.  His beloved grandchildren, Joey and Ryan Sivilli.  His siblings, Joseph Vassallie of Long Branch, and Mary Labanowski of Queens, NY.  His nephews and niece; JJ Vassallie, Keith Labanowski, and Dorinne Cattalona.  In addition to family, he leaves behind many friends and lasting memories for all that knew him.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 15^th from 5:00-8:00 PM at Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch. A Service will be offered the following day, Thursday, February 16^th at 9:30 AM at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at BG William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Raymond’s name to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; www.stjude.org.  He loved the laughter of children and cherished the time he had with his grandchildren.