Raymond (“Ray”) R. Villanova, 78, passed away peacefully in Fort Pierce, Florida, on August 19, 2026, surrounded by his four children and his brother.

Born to Raphael and Mary (née Yannariello) Villanova in Hackensack, New Jersey, Ray grew up in Lyndhurst, NJ. He attended Lyndhurst High School and met future wife Carole Ann (née DiCamillo) during a church youth group outing. Ray earned a track scholarship to Fairleigh Dickinson University and graduated with a science degree. He and Carole married in 1972 and began their life together by welcoming three daughters in NJ and a son after the family moved to Florida.

During his 46 years in Fort Pierce, Ray embraced the Florida life. He enjoyed coaching his children’s teams at the local YMCA, snorkeling and swimming in the Atlantic, and playing tennis. Summer breaks were often spent taking the family on road trips to explore the east coast and visiting extended family in New Jersey.

“Mr. V” taught science and technology in St. Lucie County schools until his retirement. When Ray and Carole moved to North Hutchinson Island, he perfected the art of shore fishing. He would wake before dawn to be on the sand, always hoping to bring home a fresh catch before breakfast. Being near the water fed his soul. In time, Ray passed his love and knowledge of fishing on to his grandsons, Sisto and Rafael. Being “Nonno” to these boys was one of the great joys of his later years.

Family was at the heart of who Ray was. He was an engaged father, a loving husband to Carole for more than five decades, a caring father-in-law and the GOAT of grandads. Ray was always up for an adventure, and he never hesitated to help a friend in need.

Ray is predeceased by his parents, Raphael and Mary, and his beloved wife, Carole. He is survived by his children, Tina (Richard) Romine, Nicole (Eric) Price, Vanessa (Suzie Eckhart) Villanova and Marc Villanova; his grandsons, Sisto and Rafael Price; his brother, Victor Villanova; and his six nieces and nephews.

We hope Ray’s spirit has found its way to a heavenly beach, with a line in the water and Carole by his side.

A Celebration of Life for Ray will be held in the new year. Details will be posted.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Ocean Discovery Outreach Programs, in support of the ocean and coastal life he loved so much. https://fauf.fau.edu/funds/hboi-ocean/?bbhideotherfunds=1&bbfund=1685