Malverne Artist Arthur Raymond Turns 90

One of Malverne's most accomplished artists celebrated his 90th birthday in late 2012. 

Arthur Raymond, a 58-year village resident and award-winning painter, turned 90 on Oct. 22, but the village chose to recognize him Wednesday night.

During the January village board meeting, Mayor Patricia Norris McDonald presented Raymond with an official citation to mark this milestone in his life. He was joined by his two daughters, Mary Jo and Anne, and his son-in-law Trustee Michael Bailey, to accept the recognition.

McDonald described Raymond as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather who has been very active in the village since building his home in Malverne in the 1950s. The retired Army Corps. sergeant was a founding member of the Our Lady of Lourdes Men's Club and helped start the Citizen's Unity Party, which supported youth programs. 

Raymond has also been on the Holiday Lighting and Crech Committee for 50 years, serving as its chairman for more than 20. In 2011, he was chosen to light the village's Christmas tree during the annual holiday celebration.

But most people, even those who have not met Raymond, best know him for his exquisite watercolor paintings. He's captured more than a dozen scenes of Malverne, which were featured in the Malverne Historical Society's 2012 calendar. One of his paintings is on display in Village Hall.

What some may not know is that Raymond is also a noted cartoonist and authored more than 30 short stories.

As he graciously accepted the citation, Raymond stated, "I want to thank you, thank the trustees and thank the people of Malverne for making us a village that's fun to live in and fun to paint."

Related: Malverne Artist Only Paints the 'Real Things'