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Former Holy Family Pastor Laid To Rest
Msgr. Florido was born in Manhattan in 1920 and ordained to the priesthood in 1945. He was assigned to St. Lucy in Brooklyn, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin in Ozone Park, Queens, St. John the Evangelist, Brooklyn. And, in 1951, to Holy Family, where he became a Monsignor in 1986 and retired in 1990. He became Pastor Emeritus when Father John McShane took over as pastor.
Scores of Canarsiens who not only were members of the parish when Msgr. Florido was pastor but who attended Holy Family School under his leadership were also on hand. “He was beloved by so many,” said avid parishioner Jim Haver. “I remember when he came to us in 1951 as assistant to Father Vincent Genova,” he said. “Right away he was given BINGO duty and eventually he took over coordinating the annual bazaar. He worked so well with everyone.” Dr. Cunningham reflected on some of the highlights of Father Ralph’s (as he was affectionately called) career at Holy Family, mentioning that he arrived just after the opening of Holy Family School and how he was so devoted to the educational facility. His devotion to the parish and its congregation were also paramount. “Every Christmas and Easter he would send the other priests in the parish home to their families and he would remain on duty in the rectory,” Dr. Cunningham said. “He also spoiled his own family,” he added, “by trying to be at every family event he could, happy or sad. He officiated at their marriages and baptized their children. “He loved every minute of his priesthood,” the eulogist said. “When he was persecuted by illness in his last years, we never heard him question God’s plan. He struggled as best he could, supported by the love of so many people.” Dr. Cunningham said, “Father Ralph’s best work lies ahead in his new appointment as God’s right hand man, the newest saint from Brooklyn.” Msgr. Florido was interred at Saint John’s Cemetery, Middle Village, Queens. Photos by Sonny Maxon Thomas Daily precedes casket bearing Msgr. Raphael Florido into sanctuary of Holy Family Church. Msgr. Florido was pastor there from 1974 to 1990. Msgr. Florido passed away on Wednesday, February 16. He was 84.
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