Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Raymond Langlaise

Affectionately Known as Tray, Doc, and Daddy Raymond

Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of Raymond Langlaise, affectionately known as Tray, Doc, and Daddy Raymond, a man who was not only loved by his family but deeply respected by his community. When thinking of Raymond, a few words immediately come to mind: kind, generous, talented, ambitious, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Raymond was born in the village of Morne Diablo, Trinidad, West Indies, the eighth of twelve children born to Grace LaTouche and Nicholson Langlaise. His siblings Sheila, Frankie, Desmond, Bernice, Maggie, Monica, Jean, and Gloria have all gone home to be with the Lord. He is survived by his siblings Maurita, Joyce, and Joan.

From an early age, Raymond demonstrated an extraordinary gift for understanding how things worked, particularly automobiles. He was a brilliant mechanic with a natural ability that few possessed. It has been said that he and his brother Desmond could diagnose a mechanical problem simply by listening to a vehicle driving in the distance. Although he received some technical school training as a teenager, much of his expertise was self-taught.

One of Raymond's greatest gifts was his generosity and willingness to help others. He was what many would call the neighborhood mechanic, the person family, friends, and neighbors could always count on when their cars broke down or when they simply needed a helping hand. He freely shared his knowledge and talents, often helping those who could not afford to pay. For Raymond, helping others was not always about making money. It was simply part of who he was.

Raymond was never one to accept the status quo. Ambitious and determined to create greater opportunities for himself and his family, he decided to migrate to the United States in 1968.

He initially settled in Mount Kisco, New York, where he quickly began to "cut his teeth," as Trinidadians would say, working on Saabs and Volvos, two foreign automobiles with which he had previously been unfamiliar. His natural abilities and mechanical expertise impressed his employers so much that they agreed to sponsor him as a full-time worker.

Raymond returned to Trinidad to obtain the necessary documents for permanent residency and came back to the United States in April 1969. His then-wife, Lynette, joined him a few months later.

However, the strong pull of Trinidadian culture and community in Brooklyn, where many of his friends had already settled, eventually drew him away from Mount Kisco. He made Brooklyn his new home, determined to establish a foundation for his growing family.

Having left behind his son Curt from a previous relationship, along with their sons Cliff and Jeff, Raymond and Lynette worked hard to create a home where the family could eventually reunite.

Their daughter Nicole was born in Brooklyn in 1970 and spent a short time in Trinidad while both parents continued working to establish themselves financially. By 1971, the family was reunited and soon settled into their new home on East 57th Street in Brooklyn.

That house on East 57th Street became much more than a family residence. It was a gathering place, a welcoming home, and often one of the first stops for friends, relatives, and fellow Trinidadians arriving in America. Many passed through its doors as they began their own journeys in a new country. Whether someone needed advice, guidance, a familiar face, or simply a place to feel at home, Raymond was always willing to help. The house became a popular Trini "liming" spot, filled with laughter, conversation, music, and people from all walks of life.

Raymond had a vibrant personality and truly enjoyed life. He loved a good party, a good card game, and especially good music. His taste in music crossed generations and genres. From Barry White, Isaac Hayes, Herbie Hancock, Ace Cannon, Al Green, Herb Albert and the Jackson 5 to the sweet sounds of Calypso, Raymond had it all. His record collection was always "on point," and his Bose sound system was "fierce!" There was rarely a dull moment when Raymond was around.

He also loved playing cards, which earned him the nickname "Tray." And when he was having a particularly good time, he was known to say, "Bury mih with mih boots on!"

Raymond was a man of many interests and an even bigger personality. He loved music, enjoyed a lively conversation, and was never short of something to say. He kept himself well-informed about current events, politics, entertainment, and celebrity news. He could discuss world affairs one minute and tell you the latest about Snoop Dogg, Diddy, or the Mighty Sparrow the next! And if you knew Raymond, you knew that once he started talking, you might as well get comfortable because he was going to dominate the conversation! LOL! He also loved sharing stories about his own experiences and accomplishments, and he was never shy about reminding you just how talented he was. But that was Raymond, confident, knowledgeable, outspoken, and always entertaining. Whether you agreed with him or not, there was rarely a dull moment in his presence.

Raymond's generosity was extraordinary. He always seemed to have money in his pocket, but what made him special was how freely he shared it. Whether quietly slipping someone a few dollars or openly offering assistance, he gave without hesitation and rarely expected anything in return. If you were in his presence and he knew you needed something, chances were you would not leave empty-handed. His generosity extended far beyond money. He shared his time, his knowledge, his home, and his mechanical expertise with anyone who needed help. Sometimes he gave more than he should have, but helping others came naturally to him. It was simply who he was.

Over the years, Raymond became widely known and admired for his remarkable mechanical expertise. He earned the nickname "Doc," short for "Car Doctor," because there seemed to be no automotive problem he could not diagnose or solve. With his signature confidence and sense of humor, he proudly referred to himself as "the Michael Jackson of motor cars!"

Raymond was also an incredibly hardworking man. During the day, he repaired vehicles from his home, and in the evenings, he worked for the New York Telephone Company, maintaining its fleet of vehicles until midnight. He also earned his certification as a New York State Motor Vehicle Inspector.

Despite his demanding schedule, Raymond made time for others. Because he was often home during the day, he became something of the neighborhood babysitter, keeping an eye on children who returned from school before their parents arrived home. Many young people grew up knowing they could find guidance, encouragement, and sometimes a good lecture from Raymond.

He was also a mentor to many, particularly those who were new to America and trying to find their footing. He freely shared his knowledge, experiences, and advice, helping others navigate life in their adopted country. His impact extended far beyond his immediate family.

Following the dissolution of his marriage, Raymond went on to have another son, Travis, with his partner, Thora.

Raymond's passion for automobiles never diminished. As the automotive industry evolved, he continued to educate himself by attending courses and seminars, developing expertise in the increasingly complex electrical and electronic systems found in modern vehicles. He understood the importance of keeping up with changing technology and took great pride in mastering his craft.

When he relocated to Orlando, Florida, in the mid-1990s, his reputation as a skilled mechanic followed him. He worked with the Orange County Sheriff's Department, repairing and maintaining its fleet of police vehicles, while simultaneously operating his own automotive repair business, "Tray's Auto." Once again, he became recognized as a trusted "Car Doctor."

But Raymond was much more than a talented mechanic. He was an entrepreneur, a mentor, a provider, a friend, and a man who genuinely enjoyed helping people.

Of course, Raymond was not a perfect man. Like all of us, he had his flaws. Some might even say he complained a little too much! LOL! He was outspoken, opinionated, and never shy about letting you know exactly what he thought. But beneath that strong personality was a generous heart and a genuine concern for others.

Although Raymond did not attend church regularly, he had his own personal relationship with God. He believed in prayer and was rarely without his Bible, Psalm book, or prayer book or dream book with numbers. lol. His knowledge of Scripture was remarkable, and there was hardly a part of the Bible he could not discuss or quote.

One particularly touching moment during his illness was when his 6-year-old great-grandson Tristan prayed for him at the nursing home. That moment deeply moved Raymond and reflected the importance of faith and family in his later years.

Having made his peace with God many years earlier, Raymond faced the final chapter of his life with acceptance and peace.

Raymond leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of generosity, hard work, determination, and service to others.

He is lovingly remembered by his five children, Curt, Cliff, Jefferson, Nicole, and Travis; his three surviving siblings, Maurita, Joyce, and Joan; his grandchildren, Tremaine, Sache, Dominique and Zakia; his great-grandchildren, Tristan and Justine countless nieces, nephews, godchildren, relatives, and friends, including his lifelong childhood friend Miles Williams, and the many members of the community whose lives he touched.

Raymond's legacy cannot be measured simply by the cars he repaired, the businesses he built, or the money he earned. His greatest legacy lives in the people he helped, the opportunities he created for others, the knowledge he shared, and the kindness he extended so freely.

His garage was more than a place where cars were repaired. For many, it was a place of hope, where someone who could not afford to fix a vehicle could still find help. In his own special way, Raymond had a ministry through his hands, using his extraordinary gift to serve others.

His home was more than a house. It was a place of welcome, friendship, laughter, music, and community. For many who arrived in America seeking a better life, Raymond was among those who helped make that journey a little easier.

And his life was more than a collection of accomplishments. It was a life filled with stories, laughter, music, hard work, generosity, and countless acts of kindness.

Raymond, your hands may no longer be here to repair a car, lend a hand, or help someone in need, but the good you did will continue to live on through the people you helped and the memories they carry.

We will remember your laughter, your wisdom, your colorful personality, your love of music, your generosity, and, of course, your unforgettable expressions.

Today, our hearts are heavy, but we are also grateful for the blessing of having known and loved you.

May you rest peacefully, knowing that your life mattered, your kindness made a difference, and your legacy will continue through generations.

For a person's true legacy is not measured by what they leave behind in possessions, but by what they leave behind in the hearts of others.

Rest peacefully, Raymond.

Your work here is done.

Acknowledgment

The family of Raymond Langlaise wishes to express sincere gratitude to Thora Elbourne, his partner, for her commitment and assistance in caring for Raymond throughout his illness.

We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Lake Bennett Nursing Home, DE Gusipe Funeral Home & Crematorium, and the many relatives, friends, and loved ones who supported our family during this difficult time.

To everyone who called, visited, contributed financially, sent messages of sympathy, offered prayers, shared words of encouragement, or blessed our family in any way, we thank you.

Your generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, and love have been deeply appreciated.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Family of Raymond Langlaise