Reynaldo John Verdugo

Reynaldo John Verdugo, 71, finished his last big story on September 26, 2024 when he passed away at his home in Arroyo Grande, CA. A man of many names (Ray, Dad, Pop, Pidge, Doogie), he was a larger-than-life character with a spirit that brought joy to all who knew him.  

Born on January 18, 1953 in Whittier, CA to Ernest John Verdugo and Adeline Louise Pico Verdugo, Ray grew up surrounded by love from his brothers and sisters and huge extended family. He was a natural athlete and excelled at baseball from a young age, carrying that love of sports throughout his life and always rooting for his favorite teams, the Los Angeles Angels and San Francisco 49s.  

A true creative, Ray spent years working in the entertainment industry which he loved sharing stories about. His artistry could be seen in his cooking as well, he was an excellent chef and got so much happiness from seeing people enjoy the food he prepared. You could also always count on Ray to show up stylin’, he took pride in his looks and had the wardrobe to prove it. 

Ray was a loving, adoring father to a beautiful blended family of five sons and two daughters—but he was a father figure to so many more. Accepting and understanding to his core, he would open his home to anyone in need and treat them like family without a second thought. His heart was ever expanding, an endless well of love for those around him, especially his grandchildren. 

The perfect partner to Ray in every way was his surviving wife, Carrie Scopellite Verdugo. On any given day, in the best of times or the hardest of times, you would be sure to hear their belly laughs long into the night—a comforting sound that any visitor to their home got a kick out of. 

The world is too quiet and a lot less fun without Ray. We will all miss his wild stories, quick jokes, warm embraces, easy smiles, and bountiful love. He will be remembered by his large family and many friends, whom he cherished so deeply. It’s hard to imagine the party continuing on without Ray (he was usually the last one to leave after all), but we will do so in his honor, telling his stories and continuing his legacy. 

A celebration of life will be held for Ray on his birthday, January 18, 2025.

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