Our loved and respected matriarch, Ruby Cochran Lama, (also known as “Mrs. Ruby” by loyal generations of patrons and staff of Ruby Lama’s Seafood) passed peacefully with family by her side into Freedom and Glory on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the age of 93. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 54 years, Joseph Lama Jr., her father Garland Cochran, Sr., her mother Rennie Mae Bunch Cochran, her brothers Elvin Cochran, Garland "G.C." Cochran, Jr., O'Neal Cochran, her sisters Mildred Waites, and Rhudean Freeman.
Ruby is survived by her children, Joseph Lama III (Pamela), Anthony Lama (Carole), and Kathleen Cuccia (Chris). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Lisa Lama (Bryant), Joseph Lama IV, Alissa Lama, Anthony Lama Jr. (Genevieve), Angelina LoCicero Catalanotto (Anthony), and Christina LoCicero Peeples (Sean). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren; Peyton Adam, Gerard Adam IV, Steven Catalanotto, Dominic Peeples, Samantha Peeples, Ellie Lama, and Edith Lama, who affectionately called her Bebe.
Ruby was a living example and inspiration of an indomitable spirit, hard work, loyalty, love, and brutal honesty. She gave herself fully to those she loved, imparted wisdom, humor, importance of gratitude, and discipline. She had a steadfast faith in God that was ever-growing and provided her comfort and peace during trying times and the senescence chapter of her life. Ruby’s spirit lives on in everyone she touched with an everlasting impression as she was truly one of a kind. While Ruby had high expectations for strong work ethic and a strict business mindset, she had a gift regarding hospitality and was not a stranger to having a good time. She contributed to and made many memories as a proud member of the Jerusalem Shriners Organization and the Germaine Wells Easter Parade Organization. She will be missed deeply, but remembered, loved, and respected always.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment in St. Roch Cemetery no.1 in New Orleans.
Fond memories and condolences may be shared online at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.
