Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Raymond J. Landry, Sr., “Ray,” age 88, a longtime resident of Wilmington, MA, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Ray was born on July 8, 1938, in Lowell, MA, the cherished son of the late Frederick and Rita (Trombley) Landry. He was raised and educated in Lowell before proudly enlisting in the United States Navy on August 25, 1955. Ray served aboard the USS Maury, including overseas assignments, and was honorably discharged from active duty in November 1957. He continued his service with the United States Navy Reserves until September 1961.
Ray married the “love of his life,” Naomi Abell, and together they made their home in Wilmington. They shared more than 30 wonderful years together, creating countless family memories and enjoying life side by side. Naomi was not only Ray’s soulmate, but also his best friend, and he remained deeply devoted to her until her passing in 2010.
Family was at the heart of Ray’s life. He especially treasured his “guys” trips to his camp in Gilmanton, where he and his family enjoyed boating, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and, of course, having a beer or two. Ray affectionately referred to his camp as his “Castle,” and he loved every minute he spent there.
Ray worked hard throughout his life and was an exceptionally talented auto mechanic. He had a remarkable ability to diagnose just about any car problem and was equally gifted in working with people. His endearing personality and genuine ability to connect with customers made him a favorite wherever he worked.
A true social butterfly, Ray loved people and rarely met a stranger. He particularly enjoyed visiting the VA Hospital, where he would spend time socializing with patients, reminiscing, and sharing stories. He also enjoyed stopping by the local Veterans Office to catch up on current events and visit with fellow Veterans. Ray was immensely proud of his military service and held an equally deep admiration and respect for his fellow Veterans.
Ray will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, generous spirit, and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He touched the lives of so many people throughout his lifetime, leaving behind memories that will be treasured by all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.
Ray was the beloved husband of the late Naomi (Abell) Landry; dear father of Tammy Garofano and her late husband, Howard, of Cypress, TX; Dianne Landry of Cumming, GA; the late Raymond J. Landry, Jr.; and the late Janet Smith and her husband, Gary Smith, formerly of Newfield, NH, step-father of Carl Abell and his wife Maureen, Michael Abell and his wife Denise, and Steven and his wife Cathy all of Wilmington.
He was the proud “Grampy” of Justin Garofano, Lindsey Phillips, Bobby McBride, Jillian Zechner, Kyle Abell, Katie MacDougal, and Harry Abell, and the cherished great-grandfather of Evie, Joseph, Brooke, Brynn, Sadie, and Blair.
Ray was the dear brother of Janet Landry of Methuen; the late Shirley Texeira and her late husband, Joseph; the late Pauline Landry; and the late Gloria Gilcrest and her husband, David Gilcrest, of Lowell. He is also survived by an extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Family and friends are welcome to gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Tuesday, September 15th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will immediately follow at Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the Town of Wilmington, Attn: Veterans Services, 146 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA 01887.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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