Raymond T. Sohay

Raymond T. Sohay, 79, passed away peacefully January 31, 2020 at Baystate Medical Center, Springfield. Born September 6, 1940, he was a son to the late Henry and Catherine (O’Connor) Sohay of Bally David County Derry, Ireland. Ray was educated at Sacred Heart, graduated high school from Springfield Tech and furthered his education in Boston for line-a-type (printing). He was employed at Mercy Hospital, Pond Ekberg, Old Colony in MA & CT and also worked for his brother-in-law Richard Bianchi. Ray was an outstanding athlete in his younger years and was referred to as “Lefty”, since he was a left-handed pitcher. Drafted by the Detroit Tigers, he was unable to pursue his baseball career due to an elbow injury. Ray was a most patient and kind gentleman who gave of himself to family and friends. He taught younger children baseball in Agawam for the Catholic Church. He continued to play softball into his adult life. Ray enjoyed collecting and making model airplanes, cars, and prided himself on Catholic beliefs along with military historical aspects. He continued to watch baseball throughout his life. Ray leaves his 4 beloved children Kathy Fila, Michael, Matt and Mark Sohay; grandchildren Bret Fila and McKenzie Sohay; his third sister Eileen Altobelli and dearest sister Marjorie Bianchi and the late Richard Anthony Bianchi; his devoted nieces who served as his advocate; and 4 grand-nieces and grand-nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters Frances and Kathleen Sohay. Calling hours for Ray will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 from 4-7pm at Colonial Forastiere Funeral Home, 985 Main St., Agawam, MA. Ray’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 12th beginning at 8:45AM from the funeral home with a Liturgy of Christian Burial, to be celebrated at 10AM, at Sacred Heart Church, Feeding Hills. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield. For full obituary and online condolences please visit www.forastiere.com.