Ralph David Carreras Sr.

Ralph is preceded in death by his devoted, beautiful and loving wife Frances Holloway Carreras; married 55 years at the time of her passing in February 2013.

Ralph was born on December 18, 1940 in New Orleans, La to the late Frederick Ceasar and Anna Dubler Carreras. He was vowed as the patriarch of the Carreras family being the last of his siblings who preceded him in death: Anita C. Gregson, Frances A. Thompson, Fred R. Carreras and Randall G. Carreras, Sr. Additionally, he endured losses of two grandchildren, Samantha L. Kelly & Mark J. Gaspard, Jr and a great-grandson, Ricky J. Guerra III.

Ralph is survived by his and Frances' four children, Ralph D. Carreras, Jr. (Jennifer), Karen Carreras, Beth Carreras and Gwen Carreras-Harriss (Bryan).

He was affectionately known as Chivo and/or Gampaw to 8 grandchildren (Ralph D. Carreras, III, Gregory Carreras/Bambi, Misty Moley/Tony, Myndi Lind/Shad, Sid Harriss/Olivia, Danny Carreras/Stephanie, Brittany George, Ryan Harriss/Cheryl), 14 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. He often teased and "renamed" many of his grandchildren with humorous names as Cookie, Flip, Pudgy, Mickey, Rugrat, Bubba, Pamp & Princess. He was also loved and blessed by many special nieces and nephews. He remained valued by an array of long time, loyal friends.

Ralph was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was a dedicated and proud police officer for St. Bernard Parish for over 42 years. He retired from the St. Bernard Sheriff's Office as a Major in 2009.

Ralph spent countless years enjoying fishing and hunting at his camp in Delacroix Island and many other outdoor areas. He was an avid and talented outdoors sportsman and enjoyed all seasons.

With his affirmation prior to his passing, there will be a private blessing of his ashes during the inurnment at St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. A celebration of life with his immediate family will follow.

Ralph, Jr., Karen, Beth and Gwen wish to thank Heart of Hospice for their care, guidance and kindness the staff delivered. We especially want to thank family and friends for the outpouring of love and compassion throughout this journey. Without a doubt, their father will be greatly missed, however a grace-filled peacefulness overshadows their loss as they believe he is completely healed and reunited with those he loved and missed dearly whom went before him.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask you to consider making a donation in his memory to Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center in southeastern Louisiana or your favorite community charity and/or a cause close to your heart.