Los Angeles Times | Photo Courtesy of Rima Nashashibi
September 25, 1939 - January 28, 2024
In Loving Memory of Raymond Leonard Cordova
At age 84, Ray passed away peacefully on Jan 28th 2024 at Windsor Gardens of Long Beach. He was born on Sept 9th, 1939 in Springer, New Mexico to the parents of Filomeno Ramon Cordova and Virginia Mary Cordova DeHerrera.
Known as the Godfather of Labor, Raymond L Cordova, debated with Jimmy Hoffa at 22 years of age and quoted, “ you deliver, we install.” - And successfully united their competing unions, with his team loading trucks, and drivers delivering goods across America.
His early commitment was marked by his service in the U.S. Army Airborne where he served as a sergeant in the Vietnam War. From the1960’s on, Ray was a leader within the Southern California labor and civil rights movement. He worked with Cesar Chavez, and fostered a future for many migrant family’s children to succeed in the American dream.
He is survived by his loving wife, Soon Ei Cordova. His siblings Patricia Rosenda Cordova DeStetzel, brothers, Benny Christopher Cordova, and Donald Gene Cordova.
A memorial service will be held on April 7th at 1pm to 3pm at IBEW Local II, 6023 S. Garfield Avenue, Commerce, CA 90040.
Burial arrangements entrusted to MT Olivet Cemetery/ Archdiocese of Denver.
In honor of Ray, a scholarship has been established for student veterans at Coast Line Community College.
