re: RIP to a great LSU fan

Wow, this is one of those things you read and it kicks you in the nuts … you don’t want it to be true as reality is setting in. Billy and I grew up on the same street in Metairie (Beron) and were best friends growing up. We lived 5 houses apart and played sports together at Delta Playground. Families vacationed together and did dozens of fishing trips together. Billy and I were on the same swim and diving teams at Lynn Park. By age, we were 14 months apart as Billy graduated from Runnel in ‘84, and I graduated from St. Martins in ‘86.

We both went to LSU as Billy managed The Caterie and knew everbody. Such a good dude that was a pleasure to be around. In the early 90’s our lives grew apart mainly due to careers and eventually starting families. Even though I settled down in Lafayette, I would visit his restaurant Ragusa’s monthly which was next to the old Massey’s on Severn. We both had a love for food and cooking as Billy shared with me his artichoke bread recipe. Every time I fix it, I always think of Billy

Billy’s daughter Brooke was his world. He was so proud when she graduated from LSU as they spent lots of time together doing LSU things. When Billy was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in January 2020, I made a special trip to visit him. He kicked cancers arse , but it took a toll on his health. We last spoke 6 months ago and planned to get together for some good Cajun and Italian groceries. I have tons of memories from the Big Ragu as they are all positive. Never heard anyone say a negative thing about Billy. He always went out of his way to make sure others were taken care of. 55 years young, gonna miss you the whole world brother … RIP as prayers sent up for Billy’s parents, his brother and Brooke. We definitely lost a great dude and huge LSU fan. This is gonna be a tough one to process .