Willie Lago, Jr.

Sunrise: July 29, 1955                 Sunset: January 26, 2025

On July 29, 1955, heaven rejoiced as Alberta and Willie Lago, Sr., welcomed a beloved son into their arms-Willie Lago, Jr. Raised in a home built on love and the solid foundation of Jesus Christ, Willie gave his life to the Lord at the young age of 13 at Greater New Sunrise Baptist Church in New Orleans, LA., under the leadership of Pastor Willie Dempsey.  He and his siblings faithfully attended Sunday school, Sunday service and sang in the youth choir. Their father, Willie, Sr., instilled in them the values of faith, discipline and devotion, guiding them in the way they should go, as written in Proverbs 22:6.

Willie carried a divine anointing on his life, living as a true servant of the Lord. He embodied 2 Corinthians 5:7, walking by faith and not by sight. Gifted with both intelligence and wisdom, he was an outstanding student and a devoted scholar of the Word of God. His memory was sharp, his heart pure and his presence radiant-he had a charisma that inspired and uplifted all who crossed his path. Balanced in all aspects of life, he used his talents to glorify God and build his kingdom.

A lover of music and talented dancer, Willie found joy in movement, whether entertaining his family or dancing for the Lord. He graduated from O. Perry Walker High School in New Orleans, LA and enlisted in the United States Army, serving with honor from 1973 to 1976. Upon returning home, he entered the workforce with dedication and commitment, always striving to provide for his family. His first job at Sears & Roebuck Company as a young man set the foundation for a lifelong strong work ethic. Throughout his career, he worked in several states, including New York, Maryland, the Carolinas, and Louisiana touching countless lives along the way. His kindness and faithfulness left lasting impressions, and he remained in contact with many, praying for them daily.

Willie believed in Philippians 2:3, always putting others before himself. His career was not just about labor-it was a mission. His work became an avenue for spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His journey ultimately led him to Marathon Refinery in Garyville, LA, where he worked diligently and rose to higher positions. Even after retirement, he felt his purpose was not yet fulfilled. He was called to serve in the criminal justice system through XP Synergy Company and Opportunity Now, under the leadership of Joe Lewis, guiding individuals toward making better life choices. He was committed to this mission, never forgetting the grace God has shown him.

A devoted man in faith, Willie was honored to serve in ministry at Celebration Church in Laplace, LA., under the leadership of Pastor Dennis Watson, Checker Williams, David Ford and more recently, Pastor James Singleton. He co-preached and taught the Holy Word of God, welcoming others into his home alongside his beloved wife to share in fellowship, testimony, and the goodness of the Lord. Through his own life experiences and transformation, he mentored and guided men and women in the adult service program, helping them embrace a path of faith and prosperity.

Willie Lago, Jr. was more than a man-he was a vessel of God’s love, and beacon of hope, and a difference-maker, not for himself but for the glory of God. His legacy of faith, kindness and unwavering devotion will forever live in the hearts of those he touched.

Willie captured the heart of his beautiful bride, Valerie Stewart Lago and together they built a marriage rooted in faith and love. After just three months of dating, they honored their commitment to the Lord by joining in holy matrimony. On January 27, 2025, they celebrated 18 wonderful years of marriage. Their union brought together a loving and blended family of 11 cherished children: Sean Lago, Sr., Demond Lago, Sr., Willie (Amber) Lago, III, Malcolm (Nicole) Lago, and Jonathan Stewart and Aisha (Bryant) Andrew, Nicole Pugh, Jasmine Lago, J’da (Quincy) Allen, Tramaine Lago, and J’la Swafford. Willie was also blessed with 18 precious grandchildren and 9 adorable great-grandchildren, each whom he loved dearly.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were touched by his kindness, faith, and unwavering love. His life was a testament to the greatest commandments found in Matthew 22:37-39.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment, and the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

To cherish his memory, Willie leaves behind his devoted wife, Valerie Lago; his ten beloved children, eighteen cherished grandchildren; and nine precious great grandchildren, He also is survived by his loving sibling; Dolores (Willie) Banks, Edith Booker, Sonjia Lago Wallace, Nekesha Lago, 4 bonus sisters and 2 bonus brothers.  Willie’s extended family includes his in-laws Andrea Cambre, Lucretia Stewart, Doris Stewart, Michelle Pidgeon, and Christopher (Dion) Stewart.

Additionally, he leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, spiritual daughters and sons, dear friends-all of whom were touched by his love, faith, and generosity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alberta and Willie Lago, Sr., his parents-in-law, Loretta and Walter Stewart, his beloved son, Demond Williams Lago, Sr., and his sister-mom, Lily Robinson Stewart. He also joins his late sisters Barbar Jasper and brother Rodney Lago, brother-in-law Wallace Jasper; uncles Eddie, Al, Rudolph and Sebram Frazier, Joseph Lago, Upkin Rivers and Isadore Abram; and aunts Pearl Abram, Mabel Frazier, and Dolores Frazier in eternal rest.

Although Willie has departed this life, his spirit and legacy will live on through those who loved him.

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, Officers and Members of Thee Prevailing Church, and all neighboring churches, Destiny Christian Center, Celebration Church of Laplace, LA, Marathon Refinery employees, Garyville, LA and XP Synergy Company and Opportunity Now, are invited to the Celebration of Life Services at 10:00am on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Thee Prevailing Church, 248 LA-70 Spur, Plattenville, LA 70393.   Pastor Tedrick Mills- Officiant.  Visitation 8:00am until time of service at the above-named church.  Interment Hope Haven Garden of Memory, 604 East Highway 30, Gonzales, LA 70737.  Final Arrangements Entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC. 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919.  “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission.”  Family and friends are invited to the repast following the interment of Willie Lago, Jr. at the Gonzales Civic Center, 219 W. Irma Blvd, Gonzales, LA 70737