Raymond A. Beylouni, 75, of Danbury, chairman of Colonial Automobile Group of Danbury, died June 22, at Mid-State Medical Center in Meriden, after fighting a courageous 18-month battle with Guillain-Barré syndrome. He was the loving husband of Bonnie Beylouni, his wife of 52 years. Mr Beylouni was born September 6, 1939, in Bridgeport, and was a son of Jeanette Beylouni of Danbury and the late George Beylouni, Sr.

His wife and mother; four children and their spouses, David and Melissa Beylouni of Newtown, Danielle and Dale Cone of Ridgefield, Darren and Kristin Beylouni of Ridgefield, and Dayna Beylouni of Danbury; a brother, George Beylouni of Marietta, Ga.; a sister, Victoria Beylouni of Danbury; seven grandchildren: Mackenzie, Madison, and Morgan Cone, David II and Andrew Beylouni, and Ava and Logan Beylouni; and members of his extended family including his uncle, brother- and sister-in-law, several nieces, nephews, and cousins, all for whom he had deep affection, survive Mr Beylouni.

He attended primary school in Danbury, and graduated from Peekskill (N.Y.) Military Academy and the University of Bridgeport with a degree in business. He also served in the US Army from 1959 until 1961.

In 1964 he opened his first car dealership, Century Motors, on South Street in Danbury, and began his professional journey. Mr Beylouni’s storied career as an automobile entrepreneur spanned over five decades. He loved sales and dealing with people. He had an indomitable spirit and deep belief in himself. He was always looking forward to what he could accomplish next.

Mr Beylouni was a charismatic leader among his peers, an innovative marketer, and had an unmatched passion for the automobile business. He dreamed big and then took action to accomplish those dreams. As chairman of the board, he has led the Colonial family of dealerships in Danbury for the past 25 years to be among the top performers in all of their respective brands. He was highly respected and decorated among his peers in the industry.

Mr Beylouni was a lifelong member and devoted supporter of St George Antiochian Orthodox Church. He served as a parish council president, and was an honorable member of the order of St Ignatius of Antioch. He was a generous supporter of many charitable organizations in the community, most notably Danbury Hospital and Ability Beyond. He belonged to the Lebanon-American Club, and greatly enjoyed many years of good times and friendships there. He also loved playing cards at Ridgewood Country Club, traveling, and spending time in Las Vegas. Above all, he cherished his family; his wife, children, and grandchildren were his pride and joy.

The family would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the staff of Gaylord Rehabilitation Hospital in Wallingford for their loving and outstanding care.

The family received at St George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Danbury on June 25. Funeral services and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to St George Antiochian Orthodox Church would be appreciated.

Arrangements made by Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home, Danbury.