Raynard S Branigan

Celebrating the Life and Memory of

Raynard S. Branigan

Sunrise: October 2, 1959 ~ Sunset: April 3, 2023

Raynard S. Branigan, 63 years young, formerly of Brooklyn, New York, but last resided in Jersey City, New Jersey.  He transitioned on Monday, April 3, 2023.  He was a loving son, brother, father and husband.  Raynard was an avid and enthusiastic reader who had an extensive collection of cherished books.  Raynard was super intelligent and extremely smart as displayed by his ability to answer just about any question on Jeopardy or Family Feud.  He had an eclectic taste in music, R&B and Rap.  His playlist consisted of old school R&B and Rap songs.  He would sing out loud and dance to his favorite songs. Relaxing at home watching the Knicks or Nets basketball game was one of his favorite pastimes.  Ray's clothes were always coordinated from head to toe.

Raynard or "Ray" as he was called by family and friends, knew he was a hardworking man.  As a young man he worked at the New York Stock Exchange.  He later gained employment with New Jersey City University where he worked for 16 years before retiring October 1, 2021.  For many years he also worked at Masjid Abdul Muhsi Kahalifah in Brooklyn, New York and drove a NYC taxi.

Raynard is preceded in death by his loving mother Alicia Branigan.

Ray leaves to mourn and cherish his memories by his beloved wife Valerie Herring and son Rashid Bilal.  Four brothers, Kendall, Dale, Alroy and Gary; Three sisters-in-law, Sakina, Nicole and Delores; Granddaughter, Saniya Bilal; Goddaughter, TC Herring; Four special aunts, Annabelle Branigan, Mariel Branigan, Edna Branigan, and Eleanore Simms; Special cousin, Zena Spence and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Visitation is Tuesday, April 11, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Riotto Funeral Home & Cremation Company, 3205 Kennedy Blvd. (For GPS Navigation, it is best to use our parking lot entrance address: 14 Stagg Street, Jersey City). Private cremation will follow.