It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of SSgt. Raymond "Ray" Tourville of Sandwich, Massachusetts. Ray's life was defined by love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and country.
Ray's calling to serve began early when he joined the Young Marines at age 11. He was part of the first graduating class of the Cpl. Nicholas Xiarhos Young Marines, where he quickly became a leader and role model under the mentorship of George Challies. This commitment to serving others shaped his life, becoming even stronger as he grew older.
Ray enlisted in the Marine Corps during his senior year of high school, shipping off to Parris Island shortly after graduating from Sandwich High School in 2015. His nine years of military service took him across the globe, serving as an infantry squad leader with Weapons Company, (3/2) 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment ("Betio Bastards") and later as a weapons company section leader with the (2/4) 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines ("Magnificent Bastards"). He deployed with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and served as an instructor with the Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG), preparing numerous units for deployment.
His deployments included Africa, Okinawa, Indonesia, the Philippines, Spain, Timor-Leste, and Thailand. Ray's courage, dedication, and sacrifice throughout these missions exemplified the best qualities of a Marine.
Beyond his military duties, Ray's devotion to helping others extended into his work with Recycle for Veterans, a cause close to his heart. More information about this cause can be found at www.recycleforveterans.com.
Ray's bond with animals was a constant source of joy in his life. His connection with his beloved dog, "El Jefe" (Jefe), was especially meaningful. Ray once said, we saved each other. When I rescued him, he unknowingly helped me confront years of unaddressed mental and physical issues. Jefe's passing left a void, but Ray later found a new companion in Draven, a dog he adopted with the help of Valkyries of Valor K9 Training. Reflecting on their relationship, Ray said, "It's amazing what a relationship built on love between two beings can foster."
In addition to his love for service, Ray enjoyed time at the beach, both on the East and West Coasts, and cherished moments with his Brothers. He was always up for sharing good food, a cold beer, and laughter. Ray's humor was one-of-a-kind, and his well-timed jokes could lift the mood in any room. His laughter brightened even the darkest of days, and his ability to offer comfort and protection to those around him created a deep sense of safety. His love and warmth touched everyone he met.
Ray was a cocky, badass Marine with a heart of gold, who also loved the company of the ladies. From the moment he entered this world as a tiny 4-pound baby, he was kind, loving, and gave 100% to everything he did. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Ray lived life with adventure and courage, making his family and friends proud at every turn. His excellence in the military was a reflection of his dedication to leading by example, always someone others could look up to. He had a profound influence on his nephew, inspiring him to take up jiu-jitsu, a passion that will carry Ray's legacy forward.
To those fortunate enough to know him, Ray was more than just a friend or brother's he was a source of unwavering support, always ready to help without expecting anything in return. His presence was a blessing, a light that many didn't realize was needed until it was there. Although the world feels darker without him, his name will never lose the light it brought into all our lives.
Ray, you were my best friend, and I will ensure that your memory continues to shine bright. When the angels ask me to remember, I will tell them, I remember you, Ray.
Ray is survived by his father, Raymond W. Tourville; mother, Christine Tourville (Gibbs); stepmother, Donna Tourville; stepfather, James Gibbs; brothers, Corey Tourville and his wife Ceara, and Matt Tourville; sister, Megan Chartier (Enoch); his daughter, Capria; and his beloved dog, Draven. He also leaves behind his nephews, Ryder, Teddy, Xon, and Gavin, and nieces, Reagan and Lena. His fraternal grandparents, Carol and Rodney Walter Tourville, and his fraternal grandmother, Eileen Alden. Ray is also survived by his fraternal uncles, Wally Alden and Rodney Walter Tourville; maternal uncle, Edward Ford, Jr.; fraternal aunts, Theresa Harmon (James) and Tina Tourville; maternal aunts, Joanne Bossefield and Debra Phillips, along with many cousins, including Shawn, Ryan, and Sheena, all former Marines, and numerous friends.
Ray is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Cindy and Edward Ford; step-grandfather, Wallace Alden; his mentor, Giorgio; and his great-uncle, George A. Nash Jr., a Marine scout sniper who passed in Vietnam and greatly influenced Ray’s career path.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, October 7th from 3-8pm at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 154 Route 6A, Sandwich,MA. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 8th at 11 am in the funeral home, procession to Massachusetts National Cemetery will follow immediately after the service.
Ray will be laid to rest with full military honors at Massachusetts National Cemetery. To honor his life and service, those who wish to pay tribute are asked to line the route, waving flags in support of Ray's family and in recognition of his extraordinary life of service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to 22Mohawks, a proud organization dedicated to assisting veterans and first responders in navigating the challenges of everyday life.
"Godspeed, Ray, may you have fair winds and following seas, my dear departed brother; until we meet again-Semper Fidelis!"
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