Raymond Carmelo Vega

Raymond Carmelo Vega, 46, a resident of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, March 17, 2026 doing what he loved.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

He was born on August 12, 1979 in Newburgh, NY, to his mother Pilar Alvarez. Raymond worked in California for Energy Saving Pros installing Solar panels for many years, and just recently moved to Tennessee. He enjoyed watching the Oakland Raiders play football and helped coach the football team at Placer Jr. – Hillmen football program, enjoying all the friendships he made from it. He loved being a father and being a great husband to his wife of many years, Maegan. He could always be seen with a big smile and cracking jokes.

In addition to his mother, Raymond is survived by his wife, Maegan Pugh Vega; children, Raymond Vega Jr., Antonio Vega; brothers, Xavier (Mitzi) De La Cruz, Freddy Alvarez; niece, April Santos; the woman who raised him, Jeri Odom; and his pitbull, Meatball.

Honorary Pallbearers will be his sons, Raymond and Antonio, Xavier De La Cruz, Laurencio “Goppy” Quintero, Kenny Robles, Sammy Grozav, and Meatball.