Ronald "Ronnie" Velez

Born on June 25, 1939, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Ronnie was the son of the late Louis A. Velez Sr. and Anna Mae Gonzales Velez. He attended St. Louis Cathedral Grammar School and John McDonogh High School (1957). Ronnie proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for six years, where he developed the discipline, loyalty, and leadership that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his service, Ronnie built a respected career as the owner of Young’s Dry Cleaning, where his dedication, work ethic, and character created loyal customers and lifelong friends. Well respected in his field, he served as past president of both the New Orleans Dry Cleaners Association and the Louisiana Dry Cleaners Association.

An avid golfer, Ronnie was a regular at Colonial Country Club and later Chateau Golf & Country Club— as passionate about the game as he was skilled. Over the years, he achieved an impressive 11 holes-in-one and took great pride in his club championship jacket.

More than anything, Ronnie loved his family. He shared 65 years of marriage with his wife, Lois “Judy” (Young) Velez. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. A proud husband, father, and grandfather, Ronnie, never missed an opportunity to cheer from the sidelines and celebrate the successes of those he loved most.

Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife, Lois “Judy” Velez; his sons, Don P. Velez (Amy) and Dale P. Velez (Cara); his grandchildren, Andrew Velez (Rebecca), Amanda Velez, Alexandra Rau (Derrick), Noah Velez, and Austin Speaker; and his great-grandchildren, Amelie, Owen, Olivia, and Emerson. He is also survived by his brother, Louis A. Velez Jr., and his cherished niece and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis A. Velez Sr. and Anna Mae Gonzales, and his brothers, Harold Velez and Robert “Bob” Velez.

The Velez family would like to express their deep gratitude to Dr. Bolton, Dr. Mizrahi, Dr. Halton, and the caring staff of the Hospice Unit at Ochsner Main Campus Hospital for their exceptional compassion and support during Ronnie’s final days.

Visitation: Thursday, January 29th 10:30 to 12pm at St. Rita Church, 7100 Jefferson Hwy. in Harahan LA

Memorial Mass: Thursday, January 29th 12 noon at St. Rita Church, 7100 Jefferson Hwy. in Harahan LA

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer at Ochsner.

Ronnie’s love for his family and passion for living life to the fullest will live on through his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.