Obituary

Ronald Lathan

September 8, 1966 — September 14, 2026

On September 14, 2026, the angel of the Lord silently came and called Bro. Ronald Lathan home. His soul took flight from this world of sin and pain to make his residence in a place of eternal rest.

A native of Erwinville, Louisiana and a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, Brother Ronald Lathan departed this life on September 14, 2026. He was 60 years old. Ronald was born on September 8, 1966, in New Roads, Louisiana, to the late Mr. Robert Lathan, Sr. and Mrs. Helen Lathan. He attended Rougon High School and later graduated from Diesel Driving Academy. Following his training, he worked as a truck driver at Crawford Trucking before beginning a career with Waste Management, where he faithfully served for many years until his retirement. He was also well-known for his exceptional carpentry work throughout the community.

Affectionately known as "Dookie" or "Duke," Ronald never met a stranger. He loved spending time with family and friends and enjoyed cooking both indoors and outdoors. No one ever went hungry around him because he always made sure there was plenty of food, fellowship, and laughter to share. His infectious smile and warm personality would light up any room. Whether at a family gathering, cookout, or simply spending time with loved ones, Ronald's presence brought joy to everyone around him.

Above all, Ronald was a devoted husband, loving father, proud godfather, supportive brother, uncle, and loyal friend. His family was the center of his life, and he took great pride in providing love, guidance, and encouragement to those he cherished. The memories he created and the lives he touched will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Brother Ronald leaves to cherish his precious memories his beloved wife, Aisha Lathan; his children, Emerald Lathan, Ronald Lathan, Jr. (RJ), Cyera Lathan; two special men that he raised like his own sons Rontray Lathan and Bradford Forest; a special niece, Adaja Sunshyne Rivera (Chris), who was like a daughter to him and held a special place in his heart; six cherished godchildren, Marvin Laduff, Matekia Brister, Shiya Jackson, Jontavian Laduff, Kaylynn Burnette, and Amiri Harris; his siblings, Ella Laduff, Janette Moore, Betty Long (Nikita), Diane Jackson (Steve), George (Bernadette), Roy Lathan, Kevin Lathan, and Charles Lathan (Amanda); and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his aunts, Claudia Jones, Leonia Christophe, and Louise Rosaya; his sisters-in-law, Yvonne Guerin, Shaneika (Kevin) McGowan, Telisha (Ladarvan) Mingo, Martina Jenkins, Marke'la Mangrum, Grace Mangrum, Brittani Oatis, and Tina Scott; his brothers-in-law, Gregory Mangrum, Jr., Gerrald Dillon, Gerrod Dillon, and Marcus Mangrum; his mothers-in-law, Oneita (Justin) Arnold and Terri (Gregory) Mangrum; 32 nieces, 17 nephews, 17 great-nieces, and 21 great-nephews; special friends, James Smith, Shena Byrd, and Raynis Bridges(Jackie), Stephanie Warren, and My’Deria Warren; along with a host of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Brother Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Robert Lathan, Sr. and Mrs. Helen Lathan; his sisters, Joan Lathan and Barbara Lathan; his brothers, Robert Lathan, Jr., Donald Lathan, and Chester Lathan; his sister-in-law, Keisha Lathan; and his brothers-in-law, Michael Moore and Wilfred Guerin.

Though our hearts are saddened by his departure, we thank God for the life Brother Ronald lived and the love he shared. His legacy of kindness, generosity, laughter, and devotion to family will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him. While he may be absent from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 from 11:00AM - 1:00PM at New Beachgrove Baptist Church, 4420 Crown Avenue Baton Rouge, LA 70805. Viewing will be Saturday September 26, 2026 9:00AM- 11:00AM followed by funeral service at Bethlehem Baptist Church Bogalusa, LA. 70438. Interment will be held at Bogalusa Cemetery Bogalusa, La. 70427. 

Crain and Sons Funeral Home - Bogalusa.