Raymond T. Keilman Jr. Obituary

Raymond (Ray) Thomas Keilman Jr., 80 of Mays Landing NJ passed away peacefully on March 1st, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was a man of remarkable dedication resilience and kindness.

After graduating from Father Judge High School in 1961, Ray joined the US Air Force, where he served in the reserve for six years. In addition to his service in the Air Force, Ray began his career at Bell Telephone, starting as a splicer helper he steadily worked his way up the company ladder until his retirement as a chief switchman at Bell Labs. Soon after his retirement, Ray continued his industrious career as a telephone company auditor throughout the US for the National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA), and later, he served as the chief auditor of the East Coast Branch of the Telecommunications Association (TCA).

In 2005, Ray moved to his beloved home in the Horizon Community of Mays Landing NJ. Here, Ray's industrious spirit extended beyond his retirement. He became the inaugural president of his community's Homeowners Association leading the efforts to bring the development back from the brink of bankruptcy to the flourishing community it is today. He also continued to work part-time for the MET team at Home Depot and remained politically engaged in his local township of Mays Landing.

Ray found joy and fulfillment in many facets of life, especially through his family, whom he cherished deeply. His marriage to his beloved wife, Joan Sheehy was a source of enduring love and companionship for 58 years. Together, they shared a life filled with adventure, travel, and boundless affection. Ray also loved his horses and the farm he built himself in Bucks County Pennsylvania, where he raised horses, and resided for many years. An avid outdoorsman, Ray delighted in skiing, sailing, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving, and horseback riding.

Ray's warm and generous spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. He cherished gatherings with family and friends, creating treasured memories at his homes in Mays Landing NJ, Bucks County PA, Colorado, Vermont, and Lake George NY.

Ray will be deeply missed by his devoted wife, Joan, his son Christopher (Meg) his cherished grandchildren Sarah, Erin, and Michael Pierce (Natalie), his sisters Eileen Peck (Richard) and Louis Huey (Doug), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Raymond T and Mary (nee Kane) Keilman, and a brother, Michael (Mike) Keilman.

A memorial celebrating Ray's life will be held at 1-3 pm on Saturday, March 23rd, at Boakes Funeral Home, 6050 Main Street, Mays Landing, NJ 08330.