After spending several years learning his craft through his mentors, Raymond Degidio ventured out on his own in 1989 when he started Jalex Builders specializing in custom built homes and remodels.  In 2016, Ray added Decks by Jalex to his offering and is Rhode Island’s only Certified Deck Inspector.  Tapping into his knowledge and expertise, Ray has been published in the Journal of Light Construction highlighting the latest products and technologies used in deck building.

Ray’s volunteer service is long running having served as past-president, coach, and safety director of the Narragansett Little League; past-president of the Narragansett High School Athletic Boosters Club; former Board Member of the Narragansett Pier School Athletic Boosters Club; served as a coach for the Bradford Trowt Basketball league; was on the Town of Narragansett Superintendent Search Committee; served as a teaching volunteer in the Technical Education class at Narragansett High School; and was a supporter of the Ground Hog Day Shadow Program at the Pier School.  In recognition of his time and services to the School Department, the Parks & Recreation Department, and the Youth of the Town, Ray was inducted into the Knights of the Rockingham Arch in Narragansett.  

Ray is an active member of the South Kingstown Elks Lodge #1899 and continues to be a financial supporter and donor of his time and services to the local community.