Richard Levon Lasley was born on April 29, 1930, in San Diego, California, to Minnie Ulery Lasley and Hershal Lasley and was raised in Oxnard, California, alongside his beloved sister, Patty Lasley.
Richard passed away on November 7, 2025 in Hermiston, Oregon at the age of 95 years.
Richard proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army.
He married his high school sweetheart, Claudette Arnal Lasley (“Dede”), and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and creativity.
They raised three children — Michelle, Richard II, and Anthony — in the Malibu hills of California. Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was blessed with seven grandchildren — Justin, Jeremy, Joshua, Jesse, Maya, Jack, and Luke — and two great-grandchildren, Stella and Levi.
Richard spent countless hours fishing on the ocean, tending his gardens, and watching the birds, finding peace and joy in the outdoors.
His artistic ability also found expression through photography and playing his saxophone. He also loved watching his sons create music, and Dede perform her Spanish dancing across Southern California.
Richard’s humor and warmth filled every room he entered. He had a gift for making people laugh and for spreading genuine kindness. Those who knew him will always remember his creativity, his generosity, and his joyful spirit.
After attending Ventura College and the Art Center School of Los Angeles for Illustration and Design, Richard worked as a freelance artist for major agencies in Los Angeles and New York, and was a member of The Illustrator’s Club of Los Angeles.
He went on to work as a Production Illustrator and Storyboard Artist on numerous Hollywood feature films, including Poltergeist, Back to the Future, The Karate Kid, City Slickers, and many others.
A deep appreciation for Native American culture inspired a new chapter in Richard’s art later in his life, as he began painting and illustrating scenes honoring the traditions and spirit of the Northwest and Southwest tribes.
Richard will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, artist, musician, veteran, and friend. His laughter, creativity, and love for life will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Memories of Richard may be shared with his family online through Burns Mortuary.
Burns Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements.
