Ray Anthony

Goodman

Ray A. Goodman, a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Ray was born on March 5, 1963, and raised in New York City, where he learned to appreciate the importance of family and a strong work ethic. Throughout his life, he has positively influenced numerous people with his kind and generous nature and laid-back persona.

Ray was a loving and devoted partner to his wife, Shonda, for 15 beautiful years. Together, they experienced joyful moments and shared unforgettable adventures. Their love for each other inspired all those around them. As a loving and dedicated father to his son Asher and bonus daughters Kiana and Sierra, Ray was a constant source of guidance and encouragement. He instilled the values of integrity and resilience, and his presence was a source of strength and comfort.

Ray began his professional journey as an officer with the New York City Department of Corrections (New York's Boldest). He served the department for 16 years, and during his tenure, he developed strong bonds of friendship with his colleagues and earned a reputation for delivering excellent service. After retiring, he ventured into sales and leadership roles in the Hospitality and Cultural Arts sectors, where he contributed his expertise to The Manhattan Club, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, and Hilton Grand Vacations. Throughout his career, Ray was known for his kindness and loyalty, and he left a lasting impression on all those he worked with.

Ray cherished family time. He had an infectious smile and never turned down an opportunity for fun. Ray's interest in sports was significant, and he was an avid reader committed to lifelong learning.

As we say farewell to Ray Anthony Goodman, may his legacy of warmth and compassion continue to inspire those fortunate to have known him. Ray will be deeply missed by his family, closest friends, and brothers: Jason Gill, Anthony Hart, Kevin Lynah, Allen Johnson, Ali Guneken, and many others. Please forgive us if we have omitted anyone.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Philomena Goodman, and siblings, Edna Goodman Curse and Charles Goodman.

Ray leaves to cherish: his beloved wife, Shonda Goodman; Son, Asher Goodman; bonus daughters, Kiana Dressman and Sierra Blackshear; mother-in-law, Lauren Bush; brothers, Raymond Goodman Jr., Wilburn Goodman; sister, Evelyn Goodman Ryce; granddaughter, Sophia Dressman; and a host of Brothers-in-law, Sisters-in-Law, Uncles, Aunts, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Friends.

Rest in peace, Ray. You will forever be in our hearts.

A service to honor and celebrate Ray's life will be held on Monday, March 18, at 4:00 p.m. at A.K. Macagna Funeral Home, 495 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, New Jersey.

Ray will be laid to rest on Tuesday, March 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Rosedale Cemetery, 750 East Linden Avenue, Linden, New Jersey.