Salvatore J. Raia, 95, entered eternal rest on Thursday, September 18, 2025. He was the beloved son of the late Pasquale Raia and Mary (née Iannuccilli). A proud veteran, Salvatore honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Born in Jersey City, he later made his home in Port Reading with his devoted wife, Marie, and their family. He dedicated 35 years to the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PATH Division), where he was a Car Inspector, known for his commitment and attention to detail. Among his proudest accomplishments was serving as Union Chairman, a role he embraced with passion and integrity.

In 1998, Salvatore and Marie moved to Manchester to enjoy retirement together. A loving and faithful husband, he tenderly cared for Marie until her passing on January 30, 2020. Salvatore was the proud father of four children: Donna Digilio (Johnny), Robert Endres, Rosemary Pearl, and Salvatore Raia Jr. (Donna). He was “Poppy” to his cherished grandchildren and affectionately known as “Lovie” to family, friends, and neighbors; a name that reflected his warm and inviting presence and generous spirit.

Sal appreciated sports of all kinds. He never missed an NFL game, golf tournament, or tennis match, faithfully following both the men’s and women’s competitions. College football was his greatest passion and Saturdays in the Fall were reserved for cheering on his favorite teams, most notably Penn State.

Sal was known to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: morning coffee with Stella D’oro cookies, a jelly donut, or a slice of apple pie. He had the appetite for a slice or two of pizza no matter the hour of the day. Perhaps it was this love of the little joys and his sweet tooth that was his secret to longevity—living nearly a century.

Salvatore will be entombed in a private ceremony on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.