It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Raymond F. "Ray" Catuogno on December 20, 2025.

Born November 17, 1938, in Springfield, he was the son of George and Irene (Couture) Catuogno. Ray proudly served our country in the United States Navy and was a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College. During his service, he developed skills as a Naval court reporter and typist, which he later used to found Catuogno Court Reporting in 1966 and StenTel Transcription Services in 1996.  Building on the success he achieved in business, Ray embraced a life of purpose, evident in his steadfast advocacy for veterans through the Veterans Court in Holyoke.

Ray was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was his family, including his beloved dog, Maggie.  He was predeceased by his wife, Denise (Lussier) Catuogno, and his two sisters, Dolly and Georgette.   He is survived by his eight children: Nancy Varallo (Edward), Raymond F. Catuogno, Jr. (Karen), Marguerite Catuogno (Jerry), George Catuogno (Melissa), Mary Crowe (David), Anne Catuogno-Rewis (Rodney), Christian Barthelette (Kris), and Sarah Williams (Rich).  His legacy will continue through his 33 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren — a legacy of love that will carry his spirit forward for generations.  

Ray’s impact on Springfield went far beyond what he did — it lived in how he made people feel. With a larger-than-life personality and an open heart, he showed his love for his hometown by mentoring others, supporting community events, and gathering with friends at local supper clubs, leaving behind a community bound together by wine, laughter, and love.

Ray was a passionate advocate for numerous organizations close to his heart, including The Gray House, Massachusetts End of Life Options, Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, the Hampden County Bar Association, and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. A proud grandson of Italian immigrants from Naples, he was devoted to preserving and celebrating Italian heritage and culture. In that spirit, Ray was a founding member of the Sons and Daughters of Italy, St. Padre Pio Chapter #3013, as well as a UNICO chapter in Northampton. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving as Parade Chairman for the 2025 Columbus Day Parade, marking its triumphant return after a 24-year hiatus.

Visitation will be held Sunday, January 4, from 1pm - 4pm at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St., Belchertown MA.  Funeral services, including military burial honors, will be held privately for the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in his memory to Soldier On, supporting the Western Massachusetts Veterans Treatment Court, at WeSoldierOn.org, or to The Gray House, providing essential support to individuals and families in need, at GrayHouse.org.