Category: Documents

Sung to the tune of Fugue for Tinhorns, from Guys and Dolls Lyrics by Paul Druzinsky For LAWRENCE – LARRY – EL RAY – FATMAN — 1958-2011 Nicely-Nicely His name is Larry Ray, he liked the steaks at Dre’s, and he’s a guy who wins with a pair of treys, El Ray, El Ray, we all loved…

I want to begin with the obvious: L Ray was taken from us way too soon. I’m angry about that. And sad and frustrated. I miss my friend. But standing here today, honored to be given the chance to reflect on a life that brought so many of us joy, I mainly feel blessed to…

Here’s a letter Lawrence sent home from college in 1980. It reads: Mom – Cheer up I’m almost done out here!I had a great time in Las Vegas; but you won’t get the bills until next month. I wish I was in Chicago with you and Raine. – Love Lawrence P.S. I hope you find…

A college-age L.Ray considers the options for a writing career Lyrics Singing (Folk?) Teaching English Teaching Journalism Pre? Essayist Short Story Journalist Broadcast Newspaper

Lawrence sent this letter home from summer camp in 1973. He was a counselor-in-training at the time. It reads: Dear Mom, I am slow to write because there is no time and nothing to write about. See sending food. Give my congratulations to Don & Carla [cousin]. I’m mad that I can’t see the wedding.…

10-year-old “L. Ray” sent this postcard to his mom from summer camp in 1968.