Joseph Ray DeLaune

Joseph Ray DeLaune, a resident of Baton Rouge, LA, peacefully passed away on January 9, 2018. Ray was born April 9, 1926 in Hope Villa, LA to parents, Henry Thompson DeLaune and Lula Ester Perdue DeLaune, who instilled in their son teachings of love and diligence. In 1943, Ray graduated from Dutchtown High School. Afterwards, he worked at the Santa Maria Dairy before enlisting in the US Navy on April 10, 1944. Ray honored his country by serving as a Seaman 2nd Class on the USS California. Later, for 30 plus years and until retirement, he worked for Ethyl/Albemarle as an Operator. Ray worked the hardest when it came to winning the heart of Mary Elizabeth Roppolo, an Italian-American beauty who hailed from Baton Rouge, LA, just off of Anselmo Lane. After dating for 8 years, Ray’s conquest of Mary’s heart was won; the loving couple was married on April 4, 1964. Their love was moving. It guided Ray and Mary through a beautiful life together, blessing them with two wonderfully talented sons, Joseph Michael and Mark Gregory. Ray loved traveling, dancing, gardening and cooking. He was a member of the American Legion, Progressive Men’s Club and the American-Italian Association. He is survived by: his son, Mark Gregory DeLaune; a granddaughter, Kelcie Michele DeLaune; sisters, Lillie Belle DeLaune Hernandez and Florence DeLaune; a multitude of beloved nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Carol Roppolo Thibodeaux and husband Donald, Lena Roppolo Accomando and husband John; and many other family and friends. Ray is preceded in rest by: his loving wife, Mary Roppolo DeLaune; his son, Joseph Michael DeLaune; parents, Henry Thompson and Ester Perdue DeLaune; sister, Miriam DeLaune Graves; his brothers, Leonard, Wilson, McBernie, Henry, and B.F. and other loved members of his family. Ray will be missed by all, but he will remain in the hearts of those with whom he shared his memories, and he will be cherished in the new memories he helped create within his family and friends. Ray’s legacy of love and faith will echo through the generations. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.” Matt. 5:10. Visitation will take place at Greenoaks Funeral Home on Friday, January 12, 2018 from 11:00am to 12:30pm, until a 1:00pm Funeral Mass at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, located at 11141 Goodwood Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815. Burial and reception to follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Catholic High School, 855 Hearthstone Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806.