H. Denys Rawson

Hugh Denys Rawson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, and man of profound Catholic faith, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 1^st, 2026 at the age of 93.

Born on September 9, 1932, in Kyneton, Victoria, Australia, Denys lived a life defined by enterprise, faith, and unshakable devotion to his family.

Denys entered the wool business at the age of 16, beginning what would become a lifelong calling. With characteristic hard work and curiosity, he immersed himself in the global textile trade, laying the foundation for a career that would span continents and generations.

 

Denys first met the love of his life, Prudence Ann Rawson, in Mount Buller during a ski trip at the lodge that he and his friends built, which still stands today. Six years later, after a long‑distance relationship, they were married and moved to Biella, Italy—one of the world’s most renowned centers of textile production. There, Denys and Prudence welcomed their six children—Peter, Dominic, Stephen, Matthew, Elena, and Mark. Nestled among mountains, Denys—an avid skier—taught his children how to ski on the local Alpine slopes.  Winters were spent on the snow; summers were often passed in Sardinia, where Denys loved spear fishing. During their years in Italy, the family developed a deep appreciation for Italian food, wine, and culture, and formed lifelong friendships.

 

In 1977, Denys and Prudence relocated their family to Philadelphia, PA, where Denys established R&M International, an international industrial textile trading business that would become his professional legacy. Built on relationships and integrity, the business flourished under his leadership. R&M International was, in every sense, Denys’ pride and joy.

Remarkably, Denys remained actively involved in the business well into his nineties. He loved discussing deals and strategy with his sons Dominic and Stephen, who now run the company, continuing the work and values he instilled.

 

Though his life took him far from his birthplace, Australia remained close to Denys’ heart. Over the years, Denys and Prue traveled back often to his beloved native country, maintaining strong ties with extended family and lifelong friends. Many relatives remain in Australia today, and Denys took great pride in sharing his Australian heritage with his children and grandchildren.

 

A deeply devout Catholic, Denys rarely missed daily Mass and held an unshakable belief in the power of prayer. His faith was not private but lived—guiding his decisions, shaping his generosity, and inspiring a lifetime of quiet service. Throughout his years, he supported numerous Catholic charities across the globe but had a special connection to Saint Mother Theresa’s charities and even met her in person in Calcutta. His life reflected the words of Pope Saint John Paul II: “Prayer is the foundation of all human action.”

 

Denys also found great joy on the golf course. A lifelong golfer, he played his final member‑guest tournament at the Philadelphia Cricket Club in July 2025, becoming the oldest member ever to participate. Above all, he cherished rounds of golf shared with his children and grandchildren.

 

Denys is survived by his beloved wife, Prudence Ann Rawson, and by their six children: Peter, Dominic, Stephen, Matthew, Elena, and Mark. He was a loving grandfather to 12 grandchildren:

• Quentin, Benjamin, Margaux, and Pauline, children of Dominic and Caroline Rawson née Guyottot
• Sebastian, Evelina, Allegra, Finian, and Jonah, children of Stephen and Stefania Rawson née Varnero
• Abby and Cate, children of Elena and Justin Brennan

We also lovingly remember Noah, the beloved son of Matthew Rawson, who tragically predeceased his grandfather in December 2024.

 

Above all, Denys will be remembered as a man of deep faith, steady discipline, and great warmth. His life bridged continents—Australia, Italy, and the United States—but his values never wavered. He leaves behind a legacy of prayer, family devotion, professional excellence, and generosity of spirit that will endure through all who knew and loved him.

 

 

Relatives and friends are invited to Denys’ viewing Thursday 2/5, 9 to 10am at St. Genevieve’s RC Church, 1225 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA 19031. His Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10am. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. If you would like to watch the Mass of Christian Burial please use the hyperlink Livestream.  In lieu of flowers contributions in Denys’ name may be made to the Missionary of Charity , 630 DeKalb St., Norristown, PA 19401, in keeping with Denys’ lifelong devotion to faith and service.