Raymond N. Kitt

Raymond N. Kitt, 82, of Asheville, NC, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Mission Hospital under Hospice care. Born and raised in Syracuse, he lived in Sea Cliff, NY, for many years before retiring to Asheville, NC. Ray was a proud graduate of Jamesville-DeWitt High School and attended the School of Music at Syracuse University. His love of music was lifelong, and he delighted others with his talent as a trumpet player.

Ray, a U.S. Army veteran, served honorably as a military police officer in South Korea. Following his military service, he dedicated over 40 years to the automobile sales industry, building lasting relationships with colleagues and clients alike. 

Ray was a man of diverse passions. A skilled Ukrainian dancer, he found joy and connection in cultural expression. He also loved sailing and spent countless hours on the water, a pastime that brought him peace and fulfillment. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his son and his beloved grandchildren, who were the center of his world.

Ray was predeceased by his wife, Christine; and parents, Nicholas and Mary Kitt.

Surviving are his son, Andrew (Jesse) of Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Sergio and Valencia; brother, Gregory (Anne Mercier) of Rochester; nephew, Alex; and niece, Sara.

To honor Ray’s life, family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 9 to 10 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, 207 Tompkins St., Syracuse, NY 13204. A funeral Mass will follow in the church. 

Ray will be laid to rest in St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Syracuse.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 in his honor, reflecting his commitment to supporting fellow veterans.