Queens County Republican Party Chairman Phil Ragusa died on Tuesday, June 24, at the age of 74 following a brief battle with leukemia.
Ragusa took the helm over the Queens GOP in 2007, succeeding then-State Sen. Serphin Maltese. The Flushing accountant’s tenure was marred by division and repeated challenges from Republicans dissatisfied with the party’s direction.
Nonetheless, the Queens GOP remembered Ragusa for dedicating his life “to serving the community, the Republican Party and particularly his friends and family.”
“Chairman Ragusa will be remembered for his integrity and commitment to the democratic process and was viewed by many as not just a friend but a mentor,” according to a statement from the Queens GOP released last Tuesday afternoon.
“Phil was a good man, was dedicated to Queens County and the Republican Party and was an indomitable county chair,” added New York State Republican Party Chairperson Ed Cox. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ragusa family.”
Ragusa died while under treatment at New York Presbyterian Hospital in Manhattan. Among his survivors are his wife Nelly and daughter Stephanie.
A wake for Ragusa will be held today from 2 to 5 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. at Quinn-Fogarty Funeral Home, 162-14 Sanford Ave., Flushing.
