Raymond H. Lanier

Dracut - Raymond H. Lanier, a lifelong resident of Dracut, passed away unexpectedly on August 15, 2022. He was 62.

Born in Lowell on August 3, 1960, he was the only son of the late Henry R. and Claire A. (Patenaude) Lanier. He graduated from the Greater Lowell Technical High School in 1978 as the top student in Automotive Technology. Ray enjoyed a 27-year career with the Dracut Department of Public Works and was the General Foreman of Vehicle Maintenance at the time of his passing.

Ray could drive or fix anything on wheels. He was always tinkering with his car or motorcycle, often just to make the vehicle more fun. His sport of choice was NASCAR. Ray was a hobby motorcyclist, a member of H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group), and enjoyed many charity rides around New England with his friends.

Ray was unassuming, kind, witty, and an all-around good guy. He was generous with his time and talents, always willing to lend a hand. For 15 years, Ray was the primary caregiver to his parents, a job which he shouldered with no reservations. He had a particular fondness for beagles and was often seen around town with Mitzy as his co-pilot.

Ray made this world a better place and all who were blessed to know and love him are better people for it.

Surviving Ray are his three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Donna Lanier of Dracut, Cheryl and Chris Calhoun of Vershire, VT, and Rebeca and Michael Coffey of Dracut; six nieces and nephews, Leighann Weston of Dorchester, Matthew Yackel of Lowell, Cassandra Calhoun of Charleston, SC, Scott Calhoun of San Francisco, CA, Gabrielle Coffey, Aidan Coffey, both of Dracut; and his great-nieces and great-nephews, especially Jaylin Roman, with whom he enjoyed sharing chili fries. Ray also leaves behind several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, some of whom were fortunate to have Ray in their lives for many decades.

Relatives and friends are invited to Ray's Life Celebration in the McKenna-Ouellette Funeral Home, 327 Hildreth Street, from 2 until 6 PM on Sunday. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday at 10 AM at St. Francis Church, 115 Wheeler Rd, Dracut. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Lowell Humane Society, 951 Broadway St, Lowell, MA 01854