Edward Michael Raffaele

Edward Michael Raffaele, age 78, of West Chester, PA, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025 at Paoli Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

He was the beloved husband of Eileen A. Raffaele (nee Gleason).

Born in Philadelphia on December 19, 1946, he was the son of the late Frank and Mary (Tucci) Raffaele.  Ed grew up in the Germantown section of the city and graduated from St. Francis of Assisi grade school and Germantown High School. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from West Chester University, later completing certifications as a Reading Specialist and in Special Education. Ed dedicated his career to serving students as a Special Education Teacher, a profession he embraced with patience, compassion, and purpose.

A proud United States Army veteran, Ed honorably served from 1966 to 1968 during the Vietnam War era. His service remained a meaningful part of his life, and he carried deep pride in his country and fellow veterans.

Ed was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Church. He had a lifelong appreciation for learning and culture, taking Italian language classes and nurturing a special love for traveling—especially to Italy. Some of his fondest memories were trips there shared with his daughter. He enjoyed history, exploring new places, and every moment he spent with those he loved.

Ed is survived by his wife Eileen Raffaele, daughter Mary Raffaele, brother Dominic Raffaele and many loving nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his siblings: Alphonso “Rocky” Raffaele, Phyllis Currie, Frank Joseph Raffaele Jr., Carol Burke, Joseph R. Raffaele Sr., Richard Raffaele, John J. Raffaele, Marie Raffaele and James “Jimmy” Raffaele,

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM at SS. Peter and Paul Church 1325 Boot Rd. West Chester, PA 19380, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM.

Interment will be private in Ocean City, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ed’s honor to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Ed will be remembered for his devotion to family, his service to others, his love of teaching, and the warmth and sincerity he brought into every room. His legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know him.