Raymond Michael Lyerson Sr., 53, of New Castle passed away unexpectedly on February 21st, 2025, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, where he was surrounded by his loving family. Born May 2, 1971, in Indianapolis, IN, Ray is the son of Karen Lyerson and the late Clyde Fielding, Jr.

In addition to his mother, Ray is survived by his devoted wife, the former Alyssa Elias, whom he married on July 17, 2016. He is also survived by three daughters, Christina Lyerson (Maddie Foster), Anissa Elias, and Aaliyah Lyerson; one son, Raymond "RJ" Lyerson, Jr.; one brother, Ron (Monica) Fielding; maternal aunts, Artisha (Jerry) Foster and Ellen Lyerson; and paternal aunts, Janile Feilding, Jackie Rawl, Jane Moore, and Crystal Lewis.

Also surviving are his father and mother-in-law, George and Michele Threats; sister-in-law, Vanessa (Matthew) Curley; brother-in-law, George Threats III; and grandma, Sue "Meem" Elias, who he lovingly referred to as "Lucy."  He also had a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom he loved dearly.

In addition to his father, Ray was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Jean Lyerson, one brother, Damon E. Fielding, a stepson Gordon Douglas Rees, Jr., his former wife, Laurie Brunswick Lyerson, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Ray was a 1989 graduate of New Castle High School where he played football and basketball. He was a pillar in the community impacting the lives of many and is remembered as the "East Side Legend." He was a selfless, hard-working provider, who dedicated his life to taking care of others. These qualities can be attributed to his upbringing with his beloved grandmother, Jean Lyerson, whom he called "Mom." He valued every friendship he made over his 40 years working at Sharon, Fulena, and Smith paving companies. Some of those friends have become family.

Ray was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan who enjoyed making Sunday sauce and listening to 90's R&B. He had the best sense of humor and always made us laugh. He loved spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed supporting his children's activities and achievements. Having everyone together was his greatest joy. He was a one-of-a-kind man who left behind a legacy his wife and children can be proud of.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the family by contributing to: Raymond M. Lyerson, Sr. Memorial Fund.

The family will receive friends & loved ones on Wednesday, February 26th from 5 – 8 PM at J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home & Crematory at 111 West Falls Street in New Castle.

A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, February 27th at 11 AM. A procession will leave the funeral home immediately following the service. Apostle David M. Young, Sr. of Prevailing Word World Outreach Center, where Ray was a member, will be officiating.