Raymond Frank Gasser

Raymond F. Gasser, Ph.D., whose brilliant mind, generous spirit, and deep devotion to family shaped generations of students and loved ones, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 90.

Born in Cullman, Alabama, in September 1935, the second of seven children to Alvin and Margaret Gasser, Ray lived a life defined by curiosity, scholarship, laughter, and love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen Brinkman; his sons, Raymond Gasser Jr. and Christopher Gasser; and his grandchildren, Ethan, Annelise, and Gabrielle.

At the heart of Ray’s life was Eileen, whom he married on September 9, 1961. Their 65-year marriage was a beautiful example of enduring love, partnership, adventure, and companionship. Together, they traveled the world and built a lifetime of memories side by side.

To his sons, Ray was a devoted and loving father. Ray Jr. remembers nightly bedtime conversations with his father about life, science, and the world. Chris remembers him as a mentor, provider, and protector who taught him how things work — how to use tools, work with wood, repair cars, and approach life with patience and curiosity.

After earning his B.S. from Spring Hill College, Ray received his M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Alabama in 1962 and 1965. He joined the faculty of Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans in 1965, where he rose to the rank of Full Professor. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he became widely respected for his teaching of human embryology, gross anatomy, and prenatal development to generations of medical students, residents, fellows, and graduate students.

Admired deeply by his students, Ray received more than 20 teaching awards during his career. His scholarship in human embryology produced more than 130 publications, abstracts, books, and book chapters. In 1991, he was appointed to the International Anatomical Nomenclature Committee, where he helped shape the internationally recommended terminology for human embryology. In recognition of his contributions to anatomy education and science, he was named an Honored Member of the American Association of Clinical Anatomy in 2010.

Ray also loved New Orleans — its culture, music, food, and joyful celebration of life. He found great happiness in family gatherings, good meals, Eileen’s cooking, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by the people he loved most.

Ray will be remembered not only for his intellect, scholarship, and devotion to students, but also for his warmth, humor, generosity, love of family, and enduring commitment to the preservation of life and knowledge.

He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.