LCU benefactor Young leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion to family
Ray Young, who with his wife, Dorothy, were the benefactors of the Young School of Business, died Sunday, Jan. 21 at his home surrounded by family. He was 94.
The Youngs, longtime supporters of business and agriculture in Louisiana, made a significant financial contribution to Louisiana Christian University to advance the business program, and in 2021 the university established the Ray & DorothyYoung School of Business to honor their contributions.
“Ray Young was a leader of leaders,” said LCU President Dr. Rick Brewer. “One of the most humble and brilliant people I’ve ever known. He loved Christ and Kingdom work exemplified by his devotion to First Baptist Wisner and service as a two-term Trustee for LCU. The university is forever grateful for the contribution he and Dorothy made to support our School of Business named in their honor. Undoubtedly, the first words he heard when he entered Heaven’s portals were ‘well done, good and faithful servant.’”
Young served many years on the LCU Board of Trustees. He was a Korean War veteran, farmer and agricultural consultant.
Young served as a pilot in the U.S. Navy from 1950-55 before settling with his family in Wisner, where he resided until his death. He built a thriving agricultural business. He also built an agricultural consulting business and assisted farmers throughout North Louisiana.
He was active in local, state and national agricultural organizations, and he :”received much recognition by his peers over the decades.
He was also active in public service, including being elected mayor of Wisner and serving several terms on the Franklin Parish Police Jury, as well as other professional and civic organizations.
However, as important as his life of service to his community and his state was, nothing was as meaningful as his relationship with Jesus Christ. Young was a devout Christian and member of the First Baptist Church of Wisner, where he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher and choir member.
Second only to the Lord was his relationship with his beloved wife of 71 years, Dorothy Burns Young.
“I’m thankful for my life crossing paths with Mr. Ray Young,” said Dr. Steve Horn, executive director of the Louisiana Baptist Convention. “He was wise. He was humble. He was generous. Mr. Young was a leader. His leadership style was not loud or forceful, but it was effective. I’m thankful that his legacy will live on through the students at the Ray and Dorothy School of Business.”
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Media Release | Jan. 24, 2024 | Pineville, Louisiana
Contact: Dr. Elizabeth B. Clarke, Director of University Communications | Elizabeth.clarke@lcuniversity.edu