Raymond Boyce Cartee

Raymond Boyce Cartee passed away at home on March 9, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on December 7, 1948, in Southbridge, Massachusetts, Ray was most proud of the loving family he created and the opportunities he was able to provide for them. 

He graduated from North Regional Middlesex High School in Townsend, Massachusetts. After being drafted into Vietnam, he chose to join the United States Army, serving from March of 1968 until January of 1972, including a year in Vietnam. His service earned him the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three bronze stars, and the Army Commendation Medal, recognizing his excellence and commitment. He was honorably discharged as a SP5, E-5. He was proud of his service to his country.

Ray's time in the service caused a chance meeting of his future wife at a high school football game in Pennsylvania before he left for Vietnam. It was a year-long correspondence between them while he was in Vietnam that led them to marry in May of 1970 upon his return. This past May he celebrated 55 wonderful years of marriage with Lorrie Cartee. In his last days, he shared that the secret to a great marriage lies in simply “always listening to your wife.” Together they created a life filled with laughter and love.

After leaving the military, he began a 33-year career with Bell of Pennsylvania, later Verizon. He retired as Director of Operations in 2005. Ray also believed in the importance of giving to his community. He made a profound impact through his roles as a little league coach and as a member of the zoning hearing board in Horsham, PA, along with six years serving on the Hatboro-Horsham School Board.

First and foremost, Ray was a devoted family man. As a proud "girl-dad and granddad," he was a staunch advocate for equal rights and fiercely supported women, notably championing his daughter in her fight for equal pay. He was incredibly proud watching both of his daughters graduate from college, get married and have families of their own. Ray’s greatest joy was derived from his grandchildren, Nathan, Haley, Simon, Eli, Emma, and Margot. He cherished every opportunity to support them in their activities and was so proud of their love of education. He was always the number one fan at lacrosse games for his daughter and granddaughters.

When not surrounded by family, Ray enjoyed playing rounds of golf with his friends and son-in-law, Rick, or enjoying a glass of red wine while watching sports. He loved being at home with family and the many dogs there. 

Ray is survived by his loving wife, Lorrie Cartee; daughters, Jennifer Zelesko and her husband Matthew Zelesko, and Rebecca Cartee-Haring and her husband Rick Haring; and six beloved grandchildren. He is also survived by his three brothers, Ralph, Richard, and Robert Cartee.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Evelyn Cartee Amenta and his father, Kenneth Cartee. 

Ray was an incredible family man who gave of his time and love freely. He was humble, steadfast and devoted. He was a confidante and mentor that will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Life was brighter with him around and his memory will continue to be the beacon of strength and love for his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fox Chase Cancer Center in Ray's name: Fox Chase Cancer Center Donation Link