Obituary of Raymond Harlow

Raymond “Ray” F. Harlow, Sr. late owner of R & D Finishing passed away after a short battle with cancer at his home surrounded by his family on Tuesday afternoon, December 16, 2008. He was 65 years old. Ray was born in Billerica, the son of the late Roland and Marion Harlow. He grew up in the Nuttings Lake section of Billerica and was a graduate of Billerica High School. He had resided in Sterling, Lowell, and Burlington. He learned the art of wood finishing from his grandfather and had a successful business for over 30 years. He was Lexington Furniture’s wood finisher for years. He also ran his own business, R & D Finishing in Arlington for 30 years. Because of his skill, he worked on the Ritz Carlton, refinished the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor’s desk, and worked for countless celebrities and professional athletes. His workmanship was even featured in an edition of House Beautiful magazine. In his later years, he had worked as a sprinkler fitter for Luongo Sprinkler. Ray had a passion for life. He loved to fish and was an avid boater. He enjoyed skimobiling, playing ice hockey, gardening, and spending time in New Hampshire. He was a member of the Billerica Elks for over 30 years. He loved being with his family. His home was always filled with humor and laughter. His family and friends were always welcome. He took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He particularly enjoyed taking his grandchildren to the beach. He especially cherished the holidays, family events, and cookouts. He will be lovingly remembered. Ray was the beoved husband of Diane M. (Tosi) Mills. He was the loving father of Lisa Harlow of Lincoln, NH, Lisa Robertson of Pittsfield, ME, Tammy Mills of Worcester, Tracey Sargent of Shirley, Gary Mills of Tyngsboro, Kasey Marion of Lowell, Raymond F. Harlow, Jr. & Cole Harlow both of Burlington, and the late Dawn Harlow. He was the brother of Dorothy Fraser of Westford, the late Robert, Don, David, Larry, Barbara, and Richard Harlow. He was also survived by 13 grandchildren. Funeral from the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 9 a.m. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Malachy’s Church, 99 Bedford St., Burlington at 10 a.m. Visiting hours Friday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Interment in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington. Memorials in Ray’s name may be made to the VNA of Middlesex East and Visiting Nurse Hospice, 607 North Ave, Suite 17, Wakefield, MA 01880.