Raymond Prignano Alexander

Raymond Prignano Alexander, 78, of Wake Forest, North Carolina, passed away at home on January 13, 2026. 

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, to the late Eleanor and Orazio Prignano, Raymond is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Annette, his sister, Jean, his son, Aron, his daughter, Elizabeth, his granddaughter, Janessa, and his family pit bull/Staffordshire terrier mix, Jakki. He was preceded in death by his parents and his loyal four-legged companions Benji, Nancy, Archie and Fritz.

Raymond proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of the local VFW Post 8466. Following his  military service, he sought out work that reflected his sense of duty and devotion to others — first by delivering mail with the U.S. Postal Service and later serving as an educator with a focus on and passion for special education. After his career as an educator, Ray continued to serve as a tutor at local community colleges. 

In addition to his professional career, much of Ray’s free time was spent championing causes he felt would most benefit his local community and impact the greater good. The majority of his advocacy centered around environmental causes, bicycle access, and youth sports. He was named Wheelman of the Year in 1997 for his efforts to initiate the Rhode Island portion of the East Coast Greenway bicycle path, which now extends from Maine to Florida. He also volunteered with Save the Bay to help protect and improve the waters of Narragansett Bay through water testing and cleanup. Ray’s lifelong love of baseball saw him serve as a coach and umpire with several local little league baseball organizations, as well as men’s softball leagues. 

Raymond was happiest surrounded by friends and family with dogs close by, watching a Yankees game, with a bike ride ahead of him. He enjoyed yard work, composting, had a soft spot for theatre, and a gift for telling jokes, always ready with a witty line or retort. 

Services to honor Raymond’s life will be held in Wake Forest, North Carolina, at Bright Funeral Home on January 22nd from 6-8 p.m.

In Rhode Island, a visitation will be held Friday, Jan. 30, from 5pm until 8pm in the "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Ave, Cranston with Reflections and Remembrances being shared at 7pm.

Inurnment with military honors will take place at a later date at the Rhode Island Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Exeter.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Please share memories and condolences at www.WoodlawnRI.com.

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