Obituary of Raymond Denis Aumack

Obituary for Raymond Denis Aumack

Raymond Denis Aumack, 87 of Montclair, passed peacefully to eternal life on October 30, 2024. Born on October 27, 1937 in Bayonne, NJ to Raymond Bernard and Marguerite Ronan. He was predeceased by his wife Ruth, his infant son Brian Matthew, his brother Donald, and his parents. He is survived by his loving children, Denis Andrew (Brianne), Kathleen Lilliana Singh (Manjeet), Timothy Patrick (Meghan), and Ellen Marie (Russ). His grandchildren Elijah, Isaiah, Devin, and Nina Singh, Ethan and Paige Aumack, Lucy and Madeline Aumack and two great-grandchildren. Ray's greatest joy was being their Poppy.

Also surviving are his brother James Aumack (Margaret), Sister-in-law Diane, nieces Liz Hahn, Danny and Bonnie Aumack, nephews Sean (Hilary) and Craig (Betsy), close dear friends, Joan Daley, Sandy Murphy, Catherine Macci, and so many others. He was a cherished patriarch and beloved storyteller whose life embodied the values of faith, education, and service.

Proudly Irish and always with a song in his heart, Ray's remarkable academic journey began at St. Peter's Prep in Jersey City, which laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to serving others. He earned degrees from Seton Hall University, a Master of Divinity in Theology from Immaculate Conception Seminary, and a Master of Arts in New Testament Studies from Drew University, along with certifications in counseling and psychotherapy from the Alfred Adler Institute.

As an ordained priest in the Archdiocese of Newark, Ray served as the pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Mountainside, NJ, where his compassion and guidance left a lasting impact. His missionary work took him through Central and South America with his best friend Father Jack Conway.

His commitment to human services was evident in his roles as a counselor, career consultant, and healthcare executive at Mountainside Hospital. An accomplished author, Ray shared his insights through fiction, poetry, and thought-provoking commentary on Religion, Sports, Society, and Politics. His weekly blog, "The Sermon I Wish I Heard," reached thousands of readers each week and his monthly contributions to Commonweal and Ducas Magazines showcased his literary talents and sharp intellect. His book of poetry Face into the Wind was published in 2018.

A loyal advocate for his alma mater, Ray served as chairman of St. Peter's Prep Class of 1955 and was a founding member of the Alumni Board. He was inducted as a “A Prep Legend” in 2007 and was honored as his class “beadle” at their 50th reunion. With his gentle and selfless manner, he was a trusted friend, confidant, and mentor to Prep graduates for many generations and his unwavering loyalty and devotion to his faith and to his alma mater was beyond measure. For many years he planned monthly Class of ‘55 luncheons to keep everyone connected. He also had a standing breakfast meeting on the last Friday of every month with his Irish friends, aptly called “The Last Friday Group”.

Ray and Ruth raised their family and lived in Montclair, NJ for over 50 years. He was involved with the Montclair Democrats, served on the Juvenile Conference Committee, was a producer and host for Montclair TV 34 and so much more. His love for his community was further demonstrated by his tireless efforts in the reopening of the Bellevue Avenue Library, ensuring it remains a cultural center for future generations and for the last three years he volunteered as the chaplain at Family of Caring nursing home.

Ray was a pillar to St. Cassian Church, where he found deep fulfillment. He sang in the church choir for many years and traveled to Italy with the choir to sing for Pope John Paul II. He taught religious classes, served on the parish council, and actively participated in church activities. His

faith always guided his actions, and he viewed St. Cassian as a nurturing environment for both personal growth and service to others. Ray's work in community service and human rights left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. His kindness, compassion, and dedication inspired countless individuals. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, all of whom will carry forward his inspiring legacy. Ray will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him and his remarkable storytelling. His spirit was magic. His deep love for his family and friends, his kindness, intellect, and unwavering commitment to service will forever shine brightly in our hearts. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted for St. Peter’s Prep, Jersey City and the Montclair Ambulance Unit.