Obituary of Raymond Otey
Raymond Otey passed away peacefully after being surrounded by loved ones at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville on Saturday, May 25, 2024. He had shared 64 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, priceless wisdom, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Born and raised in the Dover/Rockaway area to the late David and Annabelle Otey, Raymond was the youngest of seven children to bless the Otey household. Growing up, Raymond went on many adventures with his older siblings, including going fishing and even tagging along on dates with his sister. He graduated Morris Knolls High School, Class of 1978. Raymond beat to his own drum, and we love that about him. He made a very successful career for himself as a Disc Jockey aka “DJ Ray”. He had this uncanny way of reading the room and no matter the event, he had a playlist that everyone was sure to enjoy. From weddings to holiday parties and everything in between, Raymond was your man to make the party a true celebration ensuring good times. Perhaps you have even enjoyed a playlist of his; for over 25 years he was the DJ for the Exchange in Rockaway for Oldies night.
His sense of humor is something that will be missed tremendously. Raymond was notorious for putting a smile on your face, especially those times that you did not want to. He was a major History buff and thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history surrounding his home. He helped decorate restaurants, such as The Exchange and The Canal House, with photos he had collected and researched about the historic Morris Canal. Raymond was a remarkable man that will be sorely missed and never forgotten. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his parents, and brothers, Arthur and Bertram McDonald.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of his adored siblings, David (Julie) Otey of Clinton Twp., MI, Norman Otey of Rockaway, Roseann Otey Postel of Hopatcong, and Gabriel (Margo) Otey of Budd Lake; sister-in-law, Linda Brendel McDonald of Belvidere, his long-time partner, caregiver, and best friend, Renee Cady; his loving nieces and nephews, Jack, Steve, and Wade McDonald, Brett and Sean McDonald, Lisa Marie Nicoletto, Michael David and Nicholas Walter Otey, Kristy Lynn and Maria April Otey, Jason Scott Postel, Shanin Dolores Hohmann, Matthew Gabriel and David Scott Otey; and many great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family and friends.
All services will be private. Memorial Donations are being accepted by way of www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt of your donation. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Raymond here to continue to celebrate his life and let his light shine on. His family will cherish the memories forever.
