Raymond Leonard Benecki, 72 of Winchester, VA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at INOVA Fair Oaks Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Ray was born in 1953 in Wilmington, DE, the son of the late Raymond and Leona Benecki. After graduating high school, he began his studies at Cornell University before transferring to the University of Delaware, where he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Physical Education. As a college swimmer, Ray held the University of Delaware record in the 200 butterfly and was an avid distance swimmer throughout his life.

Ray’s true calling, however, was as a mentor and coach. As the founder and Executive Director of the FISH Swim Team, he built FISH into one of the premier swim programs in the United States, coaching athletes from beginners to world-class competitors. Ray inspired excellence not only in the pool but in life, setting a high bar for everyone he worked with—athletes, coaches, and colleagues alike. He led by example, always putting his heart in the right place, and was known for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering support for those around him. Ray believed in the potential of every person and had a unique gift for helping others discover their strengths and overcome challenges, both in and out of the water.

Outside of swimming, Ray had a successful career as a computer programmer for UNISYS and was an avid traveler who visited all the National Parks and many countries abroad. Despite having visited the most beautiful places in the world, Ray would say the best place to be was with his family of loved ones and the FISH.

He is survived by his partner, Linda Smith; sons, Steven Benecki (April) of Williamsburg, VA, Matthew Benecki of Manassas, VA, and Kevin Benecki of Winchester, VA; grandchildren, Theory and North Benecki of Williamsburg, VA; his sister, Teresa Zaleski (Ted) of Brielle, NJ; and his former wife, Joanne Benecki.

A visitation will be held for Ray on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11am, with a service at noon, all at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. Following the service, a time of food and fellowship will be held at Omps Reception Center/Amherst Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Children’s National Hospital.