Raymond Tyrone Duby

May 9, 1952 – May 7, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Raymond Tyrone Duby, who entered into eternal rest on May 7, 2026, just two days shy of his 74th birthday. Raymond was born on May 9, 1952, in the Panama Canal Zone, where his family was stationed during his father's military service. As the son of a serviceman, Raymond spent his early years as a proud military brat before his family settled in Wolcott, Vermont, the town he always considered home. Though his roots were in Vermont, Raymond ultimately made Texas his home and embraced its people, traditions, and values, becoming a Texan through and through. He was the beloved son of the late Albert R. Duby and Chloe (Whittle) Duby, whose love and guidance helped shape the man he would become. Raymond honorably served his country in the United States Army for 21 years of active-duty service, retiring in 1991 with the rank of Sergeant First Class. As an Army Medic and Laboratory Scientist, he dedicated his military career to caring for others, combining exceptional skill with quiet compassion. His distinguished service was recognized with numerous military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Expert Field Medical Badge, Expert Qualification Badge (Pistol .45 Cal), National Defense Service Medal with Service Star, Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal, and the Army Good Conduct Medal. He wore the uniform with pride and remained a devoted patriot throughout his life. After retiring from military service, Raymond continued to pursue knowledge and personal growth. In 1995, he earned his Bachelor's degree from Wayland Baptist University, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to education, perseverance, and self-improvement. Whether in uniform or at home, Raymond was the person others turned to for help. He offered a steady hand, a listening ear, and a compassionate heart. He believed that serving others was one of life's greatest callings, and he lived that belief every day. While Raymond faithfully served his country, his greatest devotion was always reserved for his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne, with whom he shared 47 years of marriage. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, commitment, and perseverance. Through every joy and every hardship, they remained side by side, and Raymond loved her with all his heart. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Jennifer Chapdelaine and Christine Duby, and was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Danielle Duby, whose memory he carried with him always. Raymond was an extraordinarily proud grandfather to Ciela Farnese, Vincenzo Farnese, Raymond Farnese, and Michael Farnese. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and few things brought him greater happiness than making them smile. His love language was gift-giving, and he delighted in spoiling them with thoughtful surprises. It was not uncommon for Raymond to celebrate his own birthday by buying gifts for his grandchildren instead of himself. Their joy was truly his greatest gift. An avid outdoorsman, Raymond found peace in hunting and fishing. Sitting quietly in a tree stand was one of his favorite places in the world. He often said it was there, surrounded by the beauty of God's creation, that he talked with the Lord. Nature brought him peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with his faith.

Raymond was also a gifted craftsman. A talented woodcarver, artist, clockmaker, and collector, he found joy in creating beautiful things with his hands. He generously shared many of his carvings with family and friends, hoping each one would be a small reminder of him long after he was gone. Today, those treasured pieces continue to reflect the generosity, patience, and creativity that defined his life. Though life's path was not always easy or straight, Raymond loved the Lord with all his heart. His faith sustained him through life's greatest joys and deepest trials. He believed that grace was greater than our imperfections and found comfort in the promises of Christ. His life reflected quiet strength, unwavering integrity, humility, and a servant's heart. Raymond leaves behind a legacy of honor, service, generosity, craftsmanship, steadfast faith, and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will live on in the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the countless acts of kindness he shared so freely. Funeral services were held on June 10, 2026, followed by a repast at Buona Sera Restaurant, where family and friends gathered to celebrate his remarkable life, share treasured memories, and honor a man whose greatest accomplishments were not measured by medals or titles, but by the love he gave and the lives he enriched. In keeping with the honor of his faithful military service, Raymond Tyrone Duby will be laid to rest with full military honors at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas—a final resting place befitting a man who devoted his life to serving God, his country, and his family.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23