Milton Roy Lizana

Milton Roy Lizana, CMSGT Retired, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.  He was 74.  A loving Husband, Father and “Pops,” Milton was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and was a lifelong resident of Slidell.  He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Katherine Theriot Lizana, his daughter, Rachel Lizana Word (Patrick), his son, Joseph M. Lizana (Kimberly), and his granddaughter, Henley Rose Word, all of Slidell.  He is also survived by his siblings, Shirley Lizana Ciruti (John), Bertrand Lizana, and Clarence Lizana, as well as many nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur William Lizana and Rosita Roy Lizana; his siblings, Irma Lizana Parker, Carolyn Lizana Parker and Thomas Lizana.

After graduating from Slidell High School, Class of 1969, Milton joined the United States Air Force in August 1970.  He served 9 years active duty, before transferring to the Louisiana Air National Guard in 1979. He proudly served with the 236th Combat Communications Squadron, Hammond, Louisiana, for 31 years, deploying worldwide as well as serving the citizens of Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustave and Ike. In 2003, he was activated as the Communications Support Element Systems Control Superintendent for the Combined Air Operations Center at Al Udied AB, Qatar. During his career, Milton was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal (twice) and the Louisiana Commendation Medal (five times), and many other awards and medals for outstanding service. He retired in 2010 with over 40 years of combined military service, having attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E9), earning him the nickname “Chief” from his colleagues, family and friends.

In retirement, he loved cruising the Caribbean, fishing with friends, and spending countless hours with his HAM radios, connecting with people near and far.  He was an avid LSU sports fan, and, in recent months, he delighted in following LSU Baseball’s journey to the National Championship, celebrating every game and enjoying the excitement it brought.

He found joy in life’s simple moments, but his greatest joy came from serving others.  He worked faithfully in his church and with the Epworth Project, participating in and leading adults and youth on mission trips to Denham Springs, LA; Phil Campbell, AL; Butler, MS; Port St. Joe, FL; and Tyler, Texas, among others.  As well, he worked with Missions of Helping Hands in Maryland after Hurricane Sandy.  

Of all his roles, the one he cherished most was being a husband, father and grandfather.  He was so very proud of his children and lit up when talking about his beautiful granddaughter.  His family, both immediate and extended, was his greatest treasure and he never missed an opportunity to remind them of how much he loved them and how proud he was of their accomplishments.

Milton was a true patriot in every sense and wanted to be remembered as a good servant to God, to his family and to his Country.  His unselfish, willing spirit made him a great friend to everyone, mentor to so many and a true example of kindness, humility, and Christian love for others. His legacy lives on in all of the people he led, taught and mentored. Well done, Chief.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Memorial Services at HONAKER FUNERAL HOME, 1751 GAUSE Blvd. WEST (IN FOREST LAWN CEMETERY), Slidell, LA on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 1:00 P.M.

Visitation on Saturday after 11:00 A.M. until funeral time.

Interment with full military honors will be held at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 34888 Grantham College Rd, Slidell, La. on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 12:30 P.M. 

Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA.