LAKE CHARLES, La. — Services for Horace Joseph Washington Jr., 64, of Lake Charles, La., formerly of Natchez, who died Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012, at St. Patrick Hospital, were Saturday, Dec. 29, 2012, at Combre Funeral Home in Lake Charles.

Mr. Washington was born in Natchez, the son of Horace Joseph Washington Sr. and Ruthie Lee Washington. He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Lake Charles.

Mr. Washington was a 1967 graduate of Sadie V. Thompson High School and attended Alcorn State University until being drafted into the military to serve in the Vietnam War. He was the first African-American district chief in Lake Charles at Central Station, Enterprise Boulevard.

Horace retired as a fireman from Lake Charles Fire Department after more than 32 years of service.

Horace enjoyed cooking and having friends and family over. He also enjoyed carpentry work.

Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Jazel Morrow Washington; six daughters, Wanda Laurant and husband, Keith, of Dallas, Toni Washington of Atlanta, Tracy Washington-Horn and Terri Washington-Jones and husband, Joseph, all of Lake Charles, Halisha Washington of Houston, Texas; one stepdaughter, Karen Reynolds and husband, Edward, of Houston; two sons, Kyle and Kalon Washington, both of Lake Charles; two sisters, Ruthie Lee Washington of Natchez and Julia Washington Berry of Chicago; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.