Raytheon was born to the late Jerome and Bessy Jackson on December 30, 1952 in Philadelphia, PA.  He attended Overbrook High School and graduated in 1970.  He worked at Frank Sodas Company and Lakeland Hospital between 1969-1971.  He entered into military service with the US Navy in 1971 where he initially enlisted as a Petty Officer for 4 years and served for a total of 21 years. He was a Platoon Leader in Basic Training and worked in the Laundry Dept. and ran the ship store during his initial enlistment.

During his military service he was stationed in various service locations including San Francisco, CA, San Diego, CA, Oakland, CA, Florida, The Philippines and Cuba.

His military travels also included visits to Australia, Guam and Hong Kong.  Ray stated that he had "no regrets" serving in the US Navy.  Ray worked at Lyman High School as a Security Officer for 20 years.  Ray's oldest sister, Josephine, was like a second mother to him.  Josephine described Ray as a "calm, sweet little boy who was very encouraging when interacting with others."  To put it short, "he was a comforter."

Ray's wife, Shelia, described him as a man who was "sweet and calm and one who always takes the high road during disagreements". Shelia also described Ray as having the personality of a businessman who was very particular about his money and his attire".  Ray is survived by his wife, Shelia Jackson, his sons, Zyon Jackson (mother Shelia) and Octavius and Arthur Sippio (mother Tonya Jackson).  He is also survived by his siblings Horace Jackson, Calvin Jackson, Clarence Jackson, Josephine Jones and Nadine Jackson-Payne and a host of nephews , nieces and cousins.