Raymond G. Mello

Newburyport, MA - Raymond Mello, 59, of Newburyport, MA, died February 22, of complications resulting from a fall. Ray graduated from Methuen High School and the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Ray applied his education and knowledge to become an entrepreneur and business owner. Ray and his partners opened several Wing It restaurant locations around Boston. Ray later opened his own business as a successful Real Estate Appraiser. Ray’s love for his family was endless, and his dedication to their wellbeing was always his priority. He and his wife Mary Kate shared a loving relationship for more than 25 years. Ray took tremendous pride from watching his children Max and Lily grow and flourish. Ray was a devoted son to Rita (Maroun) and Ray Mello Sr. and loving brother to his sisters Robin and Rena. Ray shared wonderful relationships and was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends (MHS, UMass, Wingit, Nbpt) who were considered family. A true character, Ray earned several nicknames, some that lovingly stuck include Mellon, Crash, Lebo, Alice, Milktoast, and Big Whiskey. Ray’s enthusiasm for living life to the fullest was infectious, and his positive energy was immediately recognized by all who met him, and especially by those who were able to have lasting and meaningful relationships with him. Whether driving the conversation around a dinner table or leading a sailing expedition, Ray had a gift for lifting the spirits of those around him and making them feel loved and appreciated. He was infinitely generous. Consequently, Ray had friends beyond count, many with whom he kept in close touch with for decades. Ray was born and raised in Methuen. His sharp wit and zeal for adventure emerged early and made him a natural leader among his peers. Ray’s love for travel took him to many places across the United States and abroad. Ray further explored his surroundings as an avid skier and sailor. He enjoyed his daily newspaper and discussing current events with others. He loved music – from old-school heavy metal to show tunes to the Grateful Dead to Cher – and attending concerts, traveling to festivals, and sharing those experiences with family and friends. Among his many gifts and talents, driving was not one of them, providing no shortage of harrowing tales. Ray’s taste for Bushmills Irish Whiskey no doubt contributed to the company’s profitability. Ray had a gift for making others laugh and to distract them from their worries. He was never afraid to be outrageous or outspoken – and on occasion out-sung. But his humor was rooted in compassion and camaraderie, and never in cruelty or condescension. He had a knack for turning life’s absurdities into jokes and reminded us all to not take anything –especially ourselves – too seriously. In spite of living with significant health challenges for the last 19 years, Ray never slowed or retreated. If anything, Ray accepted his challenges to become stronger and wiser. His tenacity and grit propelled him to stay fully engaged with his family and friends, oftentimes becoming the ringleader of whatever gathering he was part of. Ray simply refused to let anything rob him of his joy. Ray’s strength of spirit was boundless, inspiring all who came in contact with him to appreciate what life has to offer. All who knew and loved Ray may no longer be able to see his mischievous smile or hear his gregarious laugh, but his presence will forever be in their hearts. A celebration of life will take place on March 16th at 1pm at Seaglass Restaurant in Salisbury, MA. Friends and relatives are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests consideration of being an organ donor.

Raymond G. Mello

November 29, 1964 - February 22, 2024