Raymond Makoto Uyemura, 58; IT specialist and chief information officer for JA Living Legacy.
Raymond Makoto Uyemura, retired director of systems for the City of Los Angeles, passed away on July 30, 2024, at 58. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he was a community activist and champion of Japanese American history. He was married to his current wife, Susan (Shoho) Uyemura, and father of two daughters: Caitlin (Uyemura) and Ryan Buckalew, and Marley Uyemura. Son of Kinko Uyemura and brother to Shino (Uyemura) Halasz and Patrick Uyemura.
In April 2024, Ray received the devastating news he was diagnosed with sarcomatoid carcinoma. This rare and aggressive cancer came at him fast and hard. He fought and gave it his 100% effort, but less than four months later, the cancer won. Ray passed at home surrounded by his family.
Ray’s impact is too numerous to list each individual he influenced or supported, but his presence will be missed deeply by those who knew him. Humble by nature and fierce in his unwavering support, Ray had an inner quiet strength many had the honor to experience.
As a published editor of Nikkei Writers Guild publications, Ray has requested that instead of flowers, please donate to JA Living Legacy / Nikkei Writers Guild (http://www.jalivinglegacy.org). Celebration of Life will be held at Los Angeles Holiness Church on August 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. Ray requested everyone to dress in casual attire. Services are both in person and online through the church’s website http://www.laholiness.com.