Raymond Joseph Favata

Raymond Joseph Favata

May 3, 1924 – October 19, 2018

Cambridge-Raymond Favata, beloved husband and father passed peacefully in the early hours of October 19 at age of 94. Raymond was a well-known artist and a life long illustrator who was admired by his community. He lived in Dobbs Ferry, NY from 1961 through 1997 where he raised his family. In 1999 he relocated to Cambridge, NY.

Raymond, the youngest of 4 grew up on the East Side of Manhattan. His siblings, all now deceased, were Frank, Mary and Joseph. Raymond’s interest in drawing started when he was a child inspired by his brother Joseph. He was drafted by the US Army and became an illustrator for his camp newspaper during World War II serving until 1946.

His career as an illustrator and animation producer began in 1951 when his talents were discovered at Tempo Productions, a well-known studio in New York City. Raymond’s reputation grew as he worked with other studios and eventually founded his own production studios, Griffon Productions and Ray Favata Productions. He worked on and created such iconic characters Sugar Bear, Granny Goodwitch, Billy Jo Jive, Charmkins, My Little Pony, and The Great Space Coaster for which he was awarded a Daytime Emmy award in 1981. He also worked at Jumbo Productions a Disney Company, illustrating the character “Doug”.

In his later years, he enjoyed photography and hand sketching all manners of subjects including landscapes, celebrities and political figures. Raymond would often be seen in and around his community in Cambridge, New York with his trademark hat, camera and sketchpad. His friends and other area artists would often honor him by exhibiting his work in local galleries and eateries.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol, his sons Michael, Ronald, and Matthew and daughter Gena (Tony) Lisanti.

There will be a gathering on Sunday October 28 from 3-6 pm at the Round House Cafe, 25 East Main Street in Cambridge, NY. The family will be announcing a formal celebration of Raymond’s life to be held in the Spring of 2019.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to the Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad, 37 Gilbert Street, Cambridge, NY  12816 or online, www.cambridgeems.com

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