Sgt. Raymond F. Antonelli, 97

September 28, 2025

Sgt. Raymond F. Antonelli, 97, of Lancaster, PA, passed away on September 28, 2025. He was born in Kennett Square, PA, in 1928 to the late Frank and Susan Antonelli.

Raymond proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following his military service, he dedicated 25 years to the Lancaster City Police Department, retiring as a Sergeant. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his dedication and heroism, including receiving the Braton S. Kent Award for saving a young girl’s life and being honored as Patrolman of the Year with the Hamilton Watch Award.

Sgt. Antonelli’s service extended far beyond his duties as a police officer. He devoted countless hours to raising funds for charities and supporting his community. His dedication was recognized when the Lancaster Breakfast Optimist Club named him Optimist of the Year. He was instrumental in organizing the club’s invitational tournaments, the proceeds of which supported LARC (Lancaster Area Retarded Children) and the Child Development Center. He also played a key role in other community fundraising activities.

While stationed at Penn Square, Sgt. Antonelli took a personal interest in the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, often dedicating his own time and effort to maintaining the grounds and preserving its appearance. His devotion reflected his lifelong commitment to both the community’s welfare and its traditions.

Raymond was also an active member of the Lancaster Police softball team and the Coronettes, a member of the Italian American Club, and served as Chaplain of the Police Lodge for 40 years. He spent a decade on the board of the Occupational Development Center, served as president of the Optimist Club, and was involved with the American Legion and the Lancaster Boxing Club.

An avid golfer, Raymond won two senior championships—the C. Elvin Simmons and the Lancaster County Senior tournaments.

Raymond married the love of his life, Lorraine Antonelli, on January 28, 1956. He was preceded in death by their daughter, Diane Marie Antonelli. He is survived by his son, Raymond J. Antonelli; three grandsons, Benjamin Coburn, Nikolas Rostatter, and Jacob Rastetter; and a granddaughter, Megan Coburn.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Raymond’s memory to the Red Rose Lodge #16 of the Lancaster Police or to ORCA.

A viewing will be held on Monday October 6, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz PA from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Burial will follow the next day at 3:00pm at Conestoga Memorial Park, 95 2nd Lock Road, Lancaster PA 17603.