ALBANESE, RAYMOND J. - Raymond J. Albanese "Ray Allen," of Eastchester, died suddenly on May 30, 1999. He was born on January 7, 1906 in New York City, son of Italian immigrants, Albert and Maria Albanese. In 1947, Ray sang often with family and friends and decided to pursue a career in music. He studied with his uncle, Giovanni Vicari in Greenwich Village. In 1951, he started singing professionally at Mayerës Restaurant in the Bronx on the weekends. He continued on and became successful recording with many record labels. In 1961, he had a hit record with "Pepino the Italian Mouse" an received a gold record. He also wrote "Malafemmina" and "Dominick the Donkey" which were very successful and is still heard on the radio today. His song "Please, Mr. Columbus" is one of the New York School System song books. He was a member of the Screen Actors Guild Union and acted and entertained with many famous entertainers such as Jayne Mansfield, William Bendix, Mamie Van Doren, George Montgomery and more. In the late 1960s, he wrote for Frank Sinatraës Reprise Record Label. Toward the end of his career, he worked weekly at the famous Alex and Henryës Restaurant in Eastchester, entertaining and delighting all of his fans. He is survived by his longtime companion, Grace Valerioti; his sons, Albert Albanese of Mahopac, Roger Albanese of Mt. Kisco and Ray Albanese Jr. of Eastchester. Also survived by his grandhcildren, Alicia and Matthew Albanese. Visiting will be at Westchester Funeral Home, Inc., Eastchester, Tuesday and Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday 9:45 am at Immaculate Conception Church, Tuckahoe. Entombement at Ferncliff Mausoleum Friends who wish may contribute to the American Lung Association of Hudson Valley, 35 Orchard Street, White Plains, NY, 10603, in his memory. WESTCHESTER FUNERAL HOME, INC. 190 Main Street, Eastchester (914)337-4585

Published: Thursday, June 3rd, 1999