Ronald Raymond Rafferty, age 76, passed away peacefully in his home in Hypoluxo, Florida on May 23, 2022, with his wife Carolle and dog Rourke by his side.

Ron was born in New York City on February 8, 1946, the son of Mary O'Rourke and Raymond Rafferty. He grew up in Levittown, NY and attended Island Trees High School where he excelled in football which led him to play semi-pro football for a time.

Ron became a Suffolk County Police Officer on August 4,1969 and was promoted to Detective on February 24, 1973. As a detective, Ron had a special blend of energy and determination and was an inspiration to all those around him.  He was involved in several units including arson and fire investigation, undercover narcotics, and general service.

Throughout his career, he was awarded numerous recognitions for outstanding service, hard work, and devotion to duty.

He ended his 35-year career working in the sex crimes and child abuse unit where he retired on October 22, 2004.

In retirement, Ron was a longtime member and served on the executive board of the Florida Fraternal Order of Police 3100, and a member of the PBC 10-13 chapter.  His fondest times were attending the FOP meetings and hanging out with his retired police friends. He loved learning and practicing the art of Krav Maga or flying on WWII planes whenever the Historic Flight Foundation was in the area. He and his wife Carolle enjoyed traveling and just spending time together.

Ron was the consummate gentleman, a man of good character and integrity who was kind, humorous, and intellectual. He was loved and admired by family and many friends. He will be dearly missed.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Carolle Leger Rafferty, his children Kristina (Jason) Thompson, Heather (Roberto) Salinas, his stepchildren Jared (Devon) White, Jehnna White, 3 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, his brothers Dennis (Joanie) Rafferty, Brian (Michelle) Rafferty, his sisters Barbara Layden and Kathleen Drossos, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Ron on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 2pm at Lorne and Sons Funeral Home, 745 N.E. 6 ^th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Please click here to watch the livestream of the Celebration of Life.