Ray was born on November 15, 1933, in Jeanerette, LA, to the late Lester and Mary Dorsey Lazaro. He grew up in a loving family environment that instilled in him values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.
Ray proudly served as a Marine during the Korean Conflict, demonstrating bravery and dedication to his country. Following his military service, he embarked on a successful career in the oil & gas industry, starting as a welder and eventually rising to become the President of Phillips Iron Works, where he made significant contributions for many years.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ray was known for his passion for the outdoors. An avid hunter, he found joy in pursuing deer, elk, and buffalo, cherishing the moments spent in nature. His camp in Sicily Island was a sanctuary where he could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with the wilderness he loved. Ray also shared his love for fishing with his beloved wife, creating cherished memories together on the water.
In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Ray had a talent for grilling and took great pleasure in cooking Bar-B-Que for his family and friends. His gatherings were filled with laughter, warmth, and delicious food, creating lasting bonds and cherished moments for all who had the privilege of attending.
Above all, Ray valued family above everything else. He cherished spending time with his loved ones, creating lasting memories, and strengthening the bonds that held them together. His love, guidance, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 70 years, Charlotte Alexander Lazaro; two daughters, Goldie Braquet and Martha Mahoney and husband Michael; two sons, Raymond Ray Lazaro, II, and Vern Lazaro; seven grandchildren, Corey Frederick, Nicole Gardener, Angela Guillory, Krystal Rowell, Courtney Lazaro, Barton Lazaro and Tyler Lazaro; fourteen great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and one brother, Michael Bagala.
Funeral services celebrating Raymond’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 16, 2024 at Evangeline Funeral Home. Rev. Paul Neel will serve as the officiant.
Raymond will be laid to rest following the service at Beau Pre Mausoleum in Jeanerette with full military services conducted by the Acadiana Veteran’s Honor Guard.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Friday from 9:00 am until 11:00 am.
Honored to serve as pallbearers are Raymond Ray Lazaro, II, Vern Lazaro, Michael Mahoney, Corey Frederick, Barton Lazaro, and Tyler Lazaro.
Family and friends are encouraged to share their condolences and memories with the Lazaro family by visiting Raymond’s memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
