With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Citrus Crate Label Legend and Boxing aficionado Raymond R. Morua Sr., on January 31, 2024.
Raymond was born to Victor and Alexandria Morua in Santa Barbara, CA, on March 5, 1941. He was the seventh of nine children.
In his youth, Raymond was an avid athlete, participating in track & field and his lifelong love, Boxing. Raymond participated in many youth boxing tournaments, including the revered Golden Gloves Boxing competition. His love of the sport spread to his family and community. He supported local fighters, helped establish the Felix Vega Boxing Club, assisted in the training of local fighters, and even attended Boxing Hall of Fame dinners and befriended many of the Greats.
Nonetheless, Raymond’s legacy and impact came from his dealing and collecting of Citrus Crate Labels. Raymonds knowledge of Ventura County’s history of citrus growing was second to none. He knew the intricate artwork details on each label he collected and sold. Raymond was well-versed in the history behind each of his labels. Always friendly and eager to educate about the citrus history of Ventura County. If you ever purchased a citrus label in Ventura County, chances are they were one of Raymond’s. His labels were just not available at his booths and tables. You could also find his labels at the Somis Nut House and various antique stores. Raymond’s notability led to the local Rotary Club reaching out to him and collaborating on a series of citrus label-themed calendars.
Raymond was a devoted Christian who always put God first and enjoyed attending church. He was witty and humorous and cherished the time he got to spend with family and friends. Raymond loved oldies, cruising around to check on his labels, watching Boxing, and eating a good cheeseburger from any local mom-and-pop restaurant.
Sadly, Raymond is preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Esther Morua, and his siblings, Connie, Richard, Rudy, Eddie, David, Arthur (Turi), and his twin sister Mary Esther Morua.
Raymond is survived by his sons, Ray Jr. and Ben, ten grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, his brother Manuel, sister Virgina (Chita), and wife Josie. His love and memories will forever remain near and dear to their hearts.
Services will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 11 a.m., commencing at the Santa Paula Cemetery to lay Raymond to Rest, followed by a Celebration of Life and reception at the Church of Christ, 276 Santa Paula, CA. 93060.
As we say our goodbyes, let us remember Raymond R. Morua Sr. for his love, his friendship, the joys of his life, and the impact he had on his family and community. May he find eternal peace and be reunited with his loved ones who have passed before him.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.