Raymond Irvin Swalley Sr.

Raymond I. Swalley, Sr., born, October 19, 1933 in East St. Louis, IL, and a resident of New Orleans, LA since 1970, died peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 at the age of 81. Preceded in death by his parents Carter and Alpha Swalley, a brother, William Swalley, and sister Cassie Lutz. Surviving are his beloved wife of 57 years, Joel Brandt Swalley; five children, Cheryl Pontiff (Dennis), Randall Swalley (Lori #1), Raymond Swalley, Jr. (Lori #2), Ronald Swalley (Pam), and Richard Swalley (Mary Jude). He also leaves behind 12 loving grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, 4 brothers, 2 sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ray served his country in the US Army and enjoyed spending time at the lake fishing and horseracing. The family would like to thank the wonderful care team from Passages Hospice for all the care and concern they showed him. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Passages Hospice, 617 Dublin St., New Orleans LA 70118. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the visitation at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 from 9:00am until 11:00am. Funeral services will begin in the chapel at 11:00am. Interment will follow in Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.