Raymond Ralph Bigelow, 94, of Willimantic, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at his winter home in St. Augustine, Florida. Ray was born on October 28, 1931, in Willimantic, CT, the son of the late Albert and Edna (LaFlamme) Bigelow.

He is survived by his loving children, Joanne Bigelow and Jackie Francoeur; his cherished grandchildren, Robert “Bobby” Lucey, Erin Sanson, Meaghan Willhite, Cherie Pasquine, and Brittany Mitchell; and nine great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. Ray was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jacqueline “Jackie” Bigelow; his daughter, Michelle “Mickey” Bigelow; his sisters, Nellie Muzykoski, Rose Zoldak, and Madelyn Boucar; and his brothers, Bert, Gene, Henry, Bobby, and Donald Bigelow.

After graduating from Windham High School, Ray began his military service with the 43rd Division of the Connecticut National Guard from 1947 to 1950, serving with Company B, 169th Infantry. In 1950, he joined the United States Marine Corps and served honorably in the Korean War with the 1st Marine Division as a light machine gunner and squad leader. He was discharged with the rank of Corporal and received numerous military medals in recognition of his service and bravery. Following his military service, Ray returned to Willimantic, where he worked as an experimental machinist at Pratt & Whitney for 39 years. He was a proud and dedicated member of many veterans’ organizations, including serving as State Commander of the American Legion in 1988. He was also a lifetime member of the Marine Corps League, AMVETS Post 2, VFW Post 1724, and the Willimantic Elks. Ray was deeply committed to honoring his fellow servicemen and took great pride in participating in the annual Memorial Day pilgrimage to six cemeteries and three memorials throughout Willimantic. He was a lifelong fan of UConn basketball and enjoyed watching football. Ray cherished time spent with his family, especially during many summers camping at Hammonasset Beach in Madison, Connecticut.

In his later years, Ray truly lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed traveling on cruises, spending winters in St. Augustine, Florida, and even skydived at the age of 92 with Parachutes for Patriots, an experience that perfectly reflected his adventurous spirit. Ray will be remembered for his strength, patriotism, devotion to family, and his remarkable zest for life. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and love that will live on in all who knew him. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Ray’s family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, March 30, 2026 from 9:00am to 10:00am at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson Street, Willimantic, with his Funeral Mass beginning at 10:00am. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham. A reception to celebrate Ray’s life will follow at the American Legion on Bricktop Road in Windham.