[Pages H303-H304]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING RAYMOND LERMA

  (Mr. COX of California asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. COX of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Raymond 
Lerma, a beloved husband, father, and leader in the community of 
Corcoran, California. Ray passed away on January 11.
  Among his many honored roles in life, Ray served 25 years as mayor 
and councilman in Corcoran, California. He was a pillar of the 
community.
  Ray was born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Corcoran in a large and 
loving family that proudly farmed the crops of the Central Valley. 
Encouraged by his parents to reach for higher education, Mr. Lerma 
graduated from UC Berkeley. He was a proud Cal Bear.
  After college, Ray returned to the community that raised him to build 
his own family with his beloved wife, Lola. He touched countless lives 
in his 38 years as an educator at Corcoran High.
  After retirement, he kept changing lives, teaching English as a 
second language to adult learners. Ray also served as a longtime board 
member of the King's Community Action Organization, which helps to 
bring resources to the Central Valley.
  Ray once said he wanted to be remembered as someone who made a 
difference in his community. I stand before you today to say he will 
always be remembered for his dedication and contributions to his 
community. We will miss his leadership.
  Ray leaves behind his wife, Lola; their three children, Eva, Ramon, 
and Pablo; as well as his grandchildren.
  May he rest in peace.

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