Raymond Jerome Pirino

Raymond Jerome Pirino, age 85, of Orlando, Florida, recently of Clermont, entered the Heavenly Kingdom on August 17, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Kingston, Pennsylvania, Ray was the eldest son of the late Jerry Bartley and Amelia (née Brozowsky) Pirino, and brother of the late James Pirino. From a young age, Ray showed determination, curiosity, and a devotion to family and faith that would guide his entire life.

Ray attended Kingston High School and later Wilkes College in Wilkes-Barre before pursuing his lifelong calling in dentistry. He earned his DDS degree from Temple University in Philadelphia in 1965 and went on to serve his country proudly as a Captain in the United States Air Force, stationed at Harmon Air Force Base in Stephenville, Newfoundland, and later at McCoy Air Force Base in Orlando, Florida.

After his service, Ray opened his dental practice on South Conway Road in Orlando, where he cared for patients for fifty years. Known for his dedication, gentle demeanor, and steady hand, he became a trusted and respected figure in his community. He was a lifetime member of the American Dental Association, a mark of his commitment to his profession.

Ray was a man of deep faith and service. A lifelong Lutheran, he spent many years as an elder at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Orlando, guiding others with kindness, humility, and steadfast belief. In recent years, he attended Woodlands Lutheran Church in Montverde, FL.

Outside of his professional and church life, Ray was an outdoorsman at heart. He found joy in fishing and hunting, often joined by his sons on the water or at hunting leases. He was also a Jaguar car enthusiast who relished road rallies, lively conversations about cars, and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. He found friendship and fellowship in the Probus Club and enjoyed celebrating his Italian heritage with the club.

To his family, Ray was “Pop-Pop,” a role he cherished above all else. He delighted in playing games, sharing stories, and being present in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A highlight for Ray in recent years were family gatherings in Charleston and Myrtle Beach to celebrate his birthday. These moments were filled with laughter, connection, and love.

Ray leaves behind his three children: Richard (Lorraine) of Orlando, Leigh Ann Rye (Peter) of Reading, Pennsylvania, and James (Joy) of Orlando. He was the proud grandfather of Caitlin Rye Banta (Walter) of Reading, PA; Nathan Pirino (Rene) of Winter Springs, FL; Oliver Rye (Reese) of Bend, OR; Jacob Pirino of Marietta, GA; and Megan Pirino of New York City. He was “Great-Pop-Pop” to Astrid Jane Banta and Alice James Banta. He is also survived by his sister, Alberta Tunila of Groveland, FL.

Ray’s life was marked by devotion—to his family, his faith, his profession, and his passions. He will be remembered for his integrity, his warmth, and his generous spirit.

A service of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 2:30pm at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1515 South Semoran Boulevard, Orlando, 32807. A private service of Interment in Pennsylvania will be held at a later date. In lieu of flower, donations can be made to the Prince of Peace Food Pantry.

The family is deeply appreciative of the compassionate care Ray received at Lutheran Haven Lodge in Oviedo.