Dr. Rafael "Ray" Armando Sierra

Rafael “Ray” Armando Sierra, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Gulfport, Florida, on July 3, 2026, after a brief illness. Born in Havana, Cuba, on October 27, 1949, Ray’s early years helped shape the resilience, determination, and quiet strength he carried throughout his life.

Ray leaves behind Betsy Hunt Sierra, his “Love” and partner of 40 years, whose life with him reflected enduring affection, devotion, and mutual respect. He is also survived by his cherished daughter, Sarah Sierra, who affectionately called him Fafi and shared with him a distinctive bond rooted in their mutual love of Spanish literature and physics. He was the proud grandfather of Ryan Hunt Santa Maria, Aaron Laine Santa Maria, and James Rafael Efird, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy and pride. Ray is also survived by his two older siblings, Teresa Sierra of New York City and Manuel Sierra of the Florida Keys, with whom he shared lifelong bonds of affection, memory, and family history. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved and respected very much.

Ray Sierra had a remarkable career as a laser scientist and innovator in the field of laser medicine for more than 45 years. After earning a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Texas at Dallas, he joined Los Alamos National Laboratory as a staff member. He later served as director of laser technology for Candela’s Laser Technology Division, where he led both laser development and clinical applications. Ray went on to join Cynosure, serving as Chief Technology Officer for 20 years. An inventor and co-inventor on more than thirty patents, Ray was also a mentor to many young scientists and a valued collaborator to clinicians throughout the field.

Ray’s life was marked not only by his accomplishments, but by the way he moved through the world—with kindness, integrity, and a generosity of spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was deeply loved and profoundly respected by family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors alike. His steady presence, thoughtful wisdom, and gentle humor created a sense of comfort and belonging wherever he went.

To know Ray was to know loyalty, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those he cared for in his life. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he loved, in the stories shared across generations, and in the quiet, enduring ways he made the world better simply by being in it.

Rafael, Ray, Fafi, “my Love”, brother, father, grandfather, friend, you will be missed beyond measure.

A celebration of Ray’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a cause near and dear to Ray’s heart. Please consider either donating to your local animal shelter or to his daughter’s rescue, RADD Dog Rescue, through this link: https://givebutter.com/untitled-campaign-rlfigs