Raymond Edgar Nightingale Jr.

Raymond Edgar Nightingale Jr. passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on June 24, 1936, in Ecorse, Michigan, he was the beloved son of the late Raymond Nightingale Sr. and the late Josephine (Hudzynski) Nightingale. He was preceded in death by his dear sisters, Josephine and Beverly. His formative years were spent growing up in Lincoln Park, Michigan, where he graduated from Lincoln Park High School in 1955.

In Lincoln Park, Raymond found the love of his life when he married the girl next door, Ann Marie (Crain) Nightingale. Their love story was one of deep devotion, with Raymond affectionately calling Ann his "Little Lady" and cherishing her every day of their life together. They built a beautiful life and family, making memories in the very city where they first met. The couple enjoyed traveling together, with some of their most memorable trips being to Hawaii, St. Kitts, and Maine. Sundays were special for the Nightingale family, as Raymond and Ann hosted family dinners, a tradition he lovingly carried on even after Ann's passing. His devotion never wavered, as he visited her gravesite every Sunday, tending to her marker or simply sitting nearby in quiet remembrance. Even when it became necessary to remove his wedding ring, he continued to wear it around his neck as a symbol of his enduring love.

Raymond was the loving and devoted father of Charles (the late Marlene) Nightingale, Mary Nightingale, Sally Nightingale, Carrie (John) Phillips, Steven (Colleen) Nightingale, John Nightingale, and Jenny (John) Corbin. Affectionately referred to as "Big Guy" by his children, Raymond was a pillar of strength for his family, always present to celebrate life's memorable moments and offer support through its challenges. Sundays were cherished times with family, especially when watching football, one of his favorite pastimes.

He was a proud grandfather to Lauren (Cole), Torrie, Bailey, Cameron, Jason (Kaleigh), Matthew (Amelia), Hannah, Olivia, Paige, Mia, Chloe, Christopher, John Jr. (Samantha), Christopher (Jessica), and Jennifer (Adam). His joy extended to his great-grandchildren: Sofia, Charlotte, Alex, Lucas, Lillian, Bradley, Jameson, Dixon, Memphis, Bellatrix, and Kennedy.

Raymond was a hardworking man who dedicated his life to providing for his family. He took great pride in his work, holding various positions throughout his career, including roles at Michigan Consolidated Gas Company, McLouth Steel, Chrysler, Ford, and Rouge Steel. A defining moment of his career was his time as a pipe fitter in the steel industry. Even outside of his primary jobs, he was always willing to take on extra work to ensure his family had everything they needed.

Beyond his work ethic, Raymond had a zest for life. He was an avid sports fan, especially devoted to Notre Dame football and the Detroit Lions. He loved playing golf with his kids, bowling, and being outdoors. He found joy in road trips, especially family vacations in the family van. Handy with tools, he enjoyed working with his hands and fixing things. Western movies, casino trips, and the card game Euchre were among his favorite pastimes. A man of simple pleasures, he cherished time spent with close friends, especially his brother-in-law Dutch and lifelong friends Bernie and Linda. And, of course, he loved his pizza and beer.

Raymond's legacy is one of love, dedication, and family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on in the memories and traditions he left behind.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025  1:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Solosy Funeral Home.

Instate will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025  9:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Mass 10:00 a.m. at Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church.

Interment will follow at Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery.