SESSA

RAFFAELE "RAFFIE"

Upon his unexpected sudden passing, Raffie was taken into glory to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Monday, June 1, 2026. He was a generous and loving husband and father, strong in his faith to God which was shown clearly to those he met.

He was born on July 31, 1956, in Waynesburg, a son of the late Carmine and Albina (DeVito) Sessa. Raffie graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Drexel University. After graduation, he worked as a professional industrial hygienist, retiring after 40 years of dedicated service.

While Raffie was a smart and hard worker in his career and well respected by his colleagues, at home he loved to unwind with a Pirates or Steelers game accompanied by family and his beloved Airedale terrier. He loved all kinds of music, especially jazz and was a skilled trumpet player in his younger years.

An avid historian, Raffie often relished settling in with a good book. He always loved visiting historic Gettysburg with his son, Michael, enjoying a beer and wings at the Blue & Gray Bar & Grill on the town square.

After retirement, Raffie spent much time dedicating himself to serving God, through volunteering for St. Vincent de Paul and grading Bible studies and writing encouragement letters to the incarcerated men at the Washington County jail through Good News Global.

Raffie is survived by his beloved wife, Shelly Sessa; and his adored son, Michael, both of Venetia.

Friends and family will be welcomed at BEINHAUER FUNERAL HOME, 2828 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, on Tuesday, 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Resurrection Parish, St. Thomas More Church, on Wednesday 10 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society (www.svdppitt.org).