Charles D. Raff

September 8, 1983 - October 2, 2022

Charles D. Raff of Fitchburg, MA, formerly of West Springfield, MA, passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 39. Charlie graduated from West Springfield High School; he went on to attend Fitchburg State University, where he earned his degree in education. Charlie had a commendable professional career.  He began his journey at Gardner High School and from there he continued to make a tremendously positive impact on every player at Leominster High School, Oakmont Regional High School, Fitchburg High School, and North Middlesex. Charlie supported and attended Unified Sports games throughout his career, as well as the Best Buddies program. While coaching was Charlie's foremost passion, he held many professional roles in the school systems including Leominster High School, Oakmont High School, Fitchburg High School, and as most currently Milford Public Schools as an attendance supervisor.  In these endeavors, he exhibited passion and energy to every student he encountered.  He had a fiery spirit and a contagious smile that could light up any room and he always put the needs of others before his.  Dozens of students and athletes remembering Charlie have said "I wouldn't be the person today without him." Charlie is survived by his loving parents, Susan (Young) Raff and Stephen Raff; his sisters, Christine Raff and Shawn Horne, Miranda Loper and Mike Loper, and Laurie Casillas and Chico Casillas. Charlie was a proud uncle to Lola, Max, and Luciana. In addition to countless loved aunts, uncles, and extended family members that meant the world to him, Charlie also leaves behind his partner, Shelby Searles; his second family, Tom DiGeronimo and Mickey Marrone; and his former spouse, Jessica Raff. Charlie's love for all of his students and former athletes that he had coached was immeasurable. So many people are better today because of him. There are no words that are enough to express how special and irreplaceable Charlie was to every life he touched. Visiting hours will be held at the West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home on Monday, October 10, from 4-7 PM. Because of Charlie's love of West Springfield High School; in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the West Springfield High School Athletics Department.