Raymond was born on December 16, 1936, in Mexia, Texas, to John Peter Launza and Eula Mae Launza. On June 10, 2026, at 8:00 a.m., Raymond peacefully passed away in his home, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love.
At the age of 18, Raymond answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. During his military career, he served in the Vietnam War and faithfully dedicated 20 years of his life to the Air Force. Along the way, he met the love of his life, Patricia Thomas. The two were married on June 15, 1960, and together built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and commitment.
After serving in Vietnam, Raymond returned to Lake Charles and worked at Alexandria Air Force Base. A few years later, he moved his family to Anchorage, Alaska, where he completed his military career and retired after 20 years of honorable service. He was also a proud member of the Free Masons.
Retirement, however, was never really in Raymond's plans. He went on to work for Marathon Oil Company for 10 years. Later, he and his family returned to Lake Charles, where he worked another 10 years with Chemical Waste Management before retiring once again. Even then, Raymond wasn't ready to slow down. He delivered Penny Saver magazines throughout the community and volunteered at the food pantry at Christian World, always finding ways to serve others.
Raymond and Patricia shared a special love for traveling. They enjoyed visiting different states and creating memories together. One of their greatest joys was traveling to Guam to spend time with their great-grandchildren. Their adventures together reflected the love and companionship they shared throughout their marriage.
In June of 2024, Raymond experienced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife, Patricia. Later, he was diagnosed with dementia. During this difficult chapter of his life, he was blessed with an extraordinary team of caregivers. These wonderful women provided not only care but also companionship, kindness, and love. They became angels on earth for our father, and our family will forever be grateful for the compassion they showed him.
Raymond leaves behind five children: Renee Alford, Diane Woods ~ Launza , (Gregory Woods) Pete Launza( Yolanda Launza) Tonya Washington~ Launza ( Alex Washington) , and Anthony Launza ( Kelly Launza)
He is preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph Launza Sr. and John Peter Launza Jr.; his sisters, Dorothy Marie Launza, & Martha Launza Hamilton. He has one surviving sister Wanda Collins.
His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Jocelyn, Johnathan(deceased) Christa, Jasmine, Brianna, Jaylen, Dasia, Anthony Jr., Adam, Alexis, and Landon.
He will also be deeply missed by his four great-grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Papa": Ariel, Danielle, Aiden, and Christian.
In addition, Raymond leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who were blessed to know him.
When we think of Raymond, we think of a man who dedicated his life to serving others—his country, his family, his church, and his community. He was hardworking, dependable, and devoted to those he loved. His life was marked by perseverance, generosity, and a quiet strength that carried him through every season.
Though we grieve his passing, we also celebrate a life well lived. We are grateful for the memories he gave us, the lessons he taught us, and the love he shared so freely.
Dad, Papa, Raymond—you will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.
The family will welcome relatives and friends at Hixson Funeral Home of Lake Charles on Saturday, June 20, 2026 beginning at 10:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life to begin at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens. Pastor Jerry Snider will officiate at the service.
May you rest in peace.
Revelations: 14:13 Those who die faithfully in the Lord are blessed because they find eternal rest from their earthly troubles, and their good deeds will follow and be rewarded by God.
