Herbie “Rae” Raffelson May 11, 2025

Herbie “Rae” Raffelson of  South Easton took his final bow on Sunday, May 11^th, 2025. He was 91 years YOUNG! Herbie was the middle child of the late Reuben and Bessie (Wittenberg) Raffelson. Herbie grew up in a musical family. His paternal grandparents played violin and viola. His mother was a singer, and his older brother Marvin was an impressive pianist. Herb’s sister Arlene was also gifted with a beautiful singing voice.

After high school, Herbie proudly served his country by enlisting in the Air Force. After four years of active duty, Herb was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant. Herb’s musical talent was not just about his amazing singing voice, or the fact he could play a multitude of musical instruments. In addition to his musical talent was his outgoing, infectious personality and his ability to evoke the spirit and the pulse of the beat to anyone in attendance. His musical talent combined with his outsized personality is what made him, for many decades, the legendary leader of the Herbie Rae Orchestra. At the height of his career, Herbie was booked years in advance for both his orchestra and for him as a Master of  Ceremonies/Entertainer for parties and celebrations without music. He kept the party goers laughing and busy with endless games, contests and prizes, popular of that era like 45 rpm records.

Herb loved being with people and was a great storyteller but did not like being interrupted. When that happened, he had a well-rehearsed response of: “Can I finish!!!” Herb paid the bills selling shoes but playing music and entertaining was his true love and avocation. For many years Herb has been entertaining in Senior Living Centers with pianist Steve Heck. Over the past few years, he was as old or older than many of those in his audience. Playing, entertaining, having the spotlight on him, is what made Herbie Rae, the youngest old man anyone ever knew.

Herbie was the loving father of Bonnie Godas and her husband Joe, Bruce Raffelson, Andrew Raffelson and Tracy Raffelson and her partner Ariana. He was the proud and cherished grandfather of Alex and Charlotte. Herb was the dear brother of Arlene Spillberg and the late Marvin Raffelson. Although twice divorced, Herbie maintained close relationships and friendships with his two former wives. Ina (Rosen) Hemphill and Nancy (Hyler) Gregory.

Herb’s funeral will be held at Schlossberg Family’s Chapel on the Hill,  824 Washington Street, Canton on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 10AM, Interment to follow at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon.

Immediately following the burial, family and friends will gather at the Chateau Restaurant, 404 Boston-Providence Turnpike, Route 1, Norwood, MA.

In lieu of flowers donations in Herb’s memory may be made to DAV (Disabled American Veterans), Massachusetts State House, Beacon Street, Room# 546, Boston, MA 02133. www.help.DAV.org

Herbie “Rae” Raffelson Funeral  Service

Zoom link (see below)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5288320605?pwd=dVFjQlUzWmVDYmFhVGwwZkNVSXBLQT09&omn=88958021556

will be activated at 9:45AM

(15 minutes prior to the start of the service)

As a courtesy to the Raffelson family and all their relatives, it is imperative that upon entry into Zoom, kindly ensure that your microphone is properly muted, so as not to affect the audio or video stream.

~ Thank You ~