Joseph Daniel Raya

It is with a very heavy heart that the Raya family announces the loss of Joseph Daniel Raya, known as “Saint” to his friends. He passed away unexpectedly on October 4, 2021, at the age of 23, after spending the day with his loved ones. Born to Jerry Raya and Melissa Rascon on October 3, 1998, Joseph was a bundle of happiness in his parents’ eyes. He was full of love, loyalty, and had a huge heart. As a young man, Saint was very inquisitive. While visiting California, he saw a horse named Geronimo in the backyard– he wanted to feed him but was hesitant, and spooked Geronimo by jerking his hand back. Curly, a family friend, had some motivating words (not be shared here!). So he stood up straight and fed the horse, not because he was scared but because he looked up to the people in his life. Joseph the “Saint” was brave and always eager to please. Joseph was a proud bother to Marley, Violet, Ambrosio Jr., Elija and Ayden. He was blessed to be loved and accepted by his stepparents Betsey Raya and Ambrosio Rascon -- He loved them with all of his heart. That’s who he was -- he was the sweetest, strongest, most handsome gentle giant. He was a joy to be around because he was compassionate and giving with his time and emotions. He loved everyone so much. We are devastated by this loss and will feel the absence of Joseph forever.To our family, Joseph was, and always will be, a wonderful young man, who showed respect to everyone. Please remember Joseph as a young man – picture his beautiful smile and his happy, ambitious, and courageous demeanor. Love him in your memories and honor him with your actions. Let his soul and loving spirit live within you and his kindness inspire us. It was a great pleasure to everyone who could be in his life and a loss to anyone that did not get a chance to love him. May his gentle soul rest forever in peace. Joseph will be very sadly missed by all.