Obituary of Jessie Raye

Jessie Campolongo Raye, 91, a gracious and accomplished woman, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2011 at Mount Nittany Medical Center. She was the loving wife and companion of Alex Raye of State College. Jessie was born in Greensburg on December 28, 1919, the fourth of eight children of Rose Cassa and Pasquale Campolongo. She is survived by sisters Caroline Zambano and Lucy Nagle, both of Greensburg, brothers Anthony of Greensburg and Robert and his wife Dorothy of State College, a sister-in-law, Catherine Campolongo of Greensburg and many nieces and nephews. Jessie and Alex met when they both worked at The Elliott Corp. in Jeanette. They married May 13, 1950 and lived in New Jersey, Washington, New York and Minnesota before retiring to State College in 1984. Jessie excelled at everything she did, from downhill skiing to gourmet cooking. A devout Catholic, she was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in State College, Jessie loved children. It was a great joy for her to spend time with many of her nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and nephews. She was a talented seamstress, a gracious hostess, and excellent bridge player. She and Alex had a lifetime of adventure and travelled extensively. The family wishes to thank her caregivers at home, at Brookline Terrace and at Mount Nittany Medical Center for their compassionate care. A memorial Mass will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church on Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at 11 a.m., with Father Charles M. Amershek, Jr., officiating. Interment will be at Centre County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Catholic Church, P.O. Box 8186, State College, PA 16805, or to the charity of your choice.