Yohan wrote on Feb 9, 2017:
"I did not know Raymond personally. We had not spoken a word to one another. However, we both studied at the University of Toronto library everyday and well into the night. We exchanged friendly nods when our eyes met. It pains me to say I wish I introduced myself. Raymond was a determined and hard-working individual. I have witnessed him studying for months with his group of friends. I send my condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest In Peace, Raymond."
Ibrahim El-Zaibak wrote on Jun 1, 2016:
"You are no longer physically with us. I write those words but it still does not feel true. I want to believe that you are still here and my eyes swell with tears to know otherwise. I miss you, my friend. I feel stronger to remember that you will always live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have crossed your path, in the memories shared, and the love reflected. This is eternal.
Rest in peace Raymond Astaphan
"
Mira Nikolova wrote on Jun 13, 2015:
"Not a day since the 29th when I heard the devastating news, has passed by without thinking about Ray, without my heart hurting and remembering what a sweet and gentle soul he was, and how unfortunate it is he is gone so soon.. To many people who didn't know him, it is probably just another young person passed away, sad yes, but life goes on.. but for the people that did know him....it is truly a tragedy. Because those who knew Ray know how amazing he was, and this is such a big loss for all of us. Couple of days ago he came in one of my dreams, it was so real. I will allow myself to quote the lyrics from one of my favourite songs.. "And it was written up in the book of life
That man shall endure forever more
Did you know destruction of the flesh is not the ending to life?
Your body is just a vehicle transporting your soul ..."
On this day, when his family, friends and loved ones are saying their last goodbyes, know that you will see him again, and he is not forever gone. I wish you all a lot of strength, love and light..and most especially Ń?о his Mom and Dad. I have asked a dear friend who is flying out to Dominica to leave a flower from me..I will be there in spirit. Raymond - Forever in our hearts!"
Aunty Gloria wrote on Jun 12, 2015:
"Ray, how can I accept a gift of your life from God and then give you back? I have no choice and surely will not hold you back. The love we shared is a manifestation of God's love for us. God has called you home and so my son, I must let you go. You will always stay with me in my heart. From childhood you were special, your cool and easy going personality was a charm. Most memorable events were the birthday parties with Jan, Neil, Cameron, Neo, Carli,and yourself..We had big parties just us. RIP Ray We will all miss you dearly."
Maro & Adri wrote on Jun 10, 2015:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jen. Deepest condolences to you and the family."
Lisa White wrote on Jun 8, 2015:
"A promising young gentleman has gone away from us too soon, but that beautiful happy smile leaves on. Jesus has him as Sunbeam shinning in the sky! My Deepest and Heartfelt Condolences to his Parents, Siblings, extended Family and Friends. May his Beautiful Soul Rest In Peace!"
Cherry Pearce wrote on Jun 8, 2015:
"Rip Raymond !!! I don't know you nor your family but I felt sick when I heard about the accident. And after reading all the memories you are an angel that went to heaven. To your mummy from another mum, stay strong my sister, your dad, brother, family members, girl friend and friends. Be blessed"
Jennifer wrote on Jun 8, 2015:
"Words seem so inadequate at a time like this, Jennifer. Just know that here are many who are praying for you and your family in the hope that God will grant you the strength needed at this very difficult time and that intime he will comfort you. May Raymond rest in peace."
Pauline Louison wrote on Jun 7, 2015:
"Dear Jen, you have been in my thoughts and prayers constantly from the time I learned of Raymond's passing and I am deeply saddened. I shall always remember that Sunday about two months ago when I met Raymond for the first time on our street here in Barbados when you and Neil were on your way to the airport with him. The Good Lord who has promised never to leave us is with you and your family and may the happy memories you have of your dear son help to comfort all of you at this time. May he Rest in Peace eternally.
Pauline Louison"
Sandra Butler wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Jennifer, it was a pleasure meeting you recently at such a happy occasion. Now, unfortunately, sympathizing with you on the death of your lovely son. May God comfort you in your grief, and may he rest in peace.
Sandra & Eric "
Rhonda Etienne wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Raymond,
I am trying to do just like Enoch told us all we should do I am trying to celebrate in our memories. I thank God I we were blessed to more than just friends we were and are family. I will cherish every trip to Dominica where I blessed to spend time with you, Jan, Neil, Steve & Auntie Jen, or Disney trip, and most of all just the simple visits to Miami where we used disappear from our moms and run around the mall. I am looking down out out last text with a smile on my face saying thank God we ending it with I love you see you soon. But for me this will not be forever, it cannot be the end; it simply means I'll miss you until we meet again... We love you Raymond "
Hannah wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Dear Jennifer keeping you in my prayers, that God May Comfort you and your family."
Frederick Elwin wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"A beautiful and short lived life. May you find comfort in the loving memories, and in the love of the family and friends. "
Heather Hill Gardiner wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Jennifer and Family, you are all in my thoughts and prayers, love all you guys. Will see you next week."
Heather wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"I am heart broken, but comforted by the knowledge that he is with his savior, and happy."
Myrtle Mcintyre and family wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Jennifer, Reginald, Steve, Jan and Neil and family.
Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache nor lighten your sorrow but we are the ones who have been graced by Raymond's big heart and shining personality. May God grant you strength and understanding as Raymond's light continues to shine through you and the whole family and know also that our hearts go out to the whole family.
"
Joan Russell wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"What can one say to a tragedy such as this. Jennifer, I am sure Raymond was a beautiful person in every way and remember him as you knew him. Why this sadness happens we do not know but we know that God will continue to watch over you and your family and He will comfort you because His grace and love is sufficient for you. our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Joan Russell"
Arlene Husbands wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Dear Jennifer, no words can erase the pain that the family is experiencing, but have comfort in knowing that the grace of God is sufficient to keep you all. He has promised to never leave you or forsake you Hold on to this truth. May His perpetual peace be with the family today and always. May Ray rest in peace. "
Neomie Tavernier wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"Two days ago I referred to you in the past tense and my heart sank. I have always had three little brothers. Although as we grew up the age differences didn't seem to matter anymore. I saw you grow, I saw you blossom. I remember our time spent together and will always cherish your birghtness and your bold personality. I will always remember your smile and the spakle in your eyes. Rest well my dear cousin and watch over us all till we meet again. Love always, Neo"
Ken, Paula, Alana and Kenny Benjamin wrote on Jun 6, 2015:
"We send our love and deep condolences Jen and family..You are in our thoughts and prayers. God's grant you His Grace and Strength.....Someone once told me to take comfort that " what the heart has loved, never goes away" .....RIP Raymond"
ursula Lawrence Simon and family wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"I just want to send my heartfelt sympathy to his Mother and Father, Jennifer and Reginald and family..may the good Lord give you comfort in this trying time...remember all the wonderful moments that you all shared. God bless."
Marilyn, Herb and Sean wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"Dear Jennifer, Reginald, Steve, Jan & Neil, we are so sorry for your loss! May all the sweet memories of Raymond bring you comfort at this difficult time.
"
Malina wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"It hurts too much to think that I will never see your smile again. I'm not sure if the loss of you will be something I can recover from."
Jno-baptiste wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"Rest in peace Raymond!
We are very sad to know about this loss!
Our thoughts are going to the family! May God accompany you in this difficult time!
Love from Marvin and Sarah"
Cameron Tavernier wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"Ever since I've known myself you've always been a part of my life. I look back and cherish all the times we've shared. Sleep overs, going to school in the morning in uncle Regie's blue Suzuki, playing football, riding bikes around around the neighbourhood, even my email address came from you. I feel like I've lost a brother and the sadness I feel is unexplainable. I celebrate your life and thank God for allowing me to grow up alongside you. We came a long way since childhood days and although life took us in different directions you will always be in my heart. One love my brother. This is not a goodbye for the fact that you will forever live in my memories. I feel a part of me has been taking away but we will meet again. May your exuberance light up ever corner of heaven and your love shine on us through ever moment. I miss you, I love you and you will never be forgotten. Thank you for being a part of life, ever moment was enriched by your presence and for that I am greatful. May your soul rest in peace my brother.
Love Cam"
Whitney Wills wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"My deepest condolences and prayers goes out to the entire family. "
Classique International wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"My deepest condolences to the entire family. May your soul rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon you. "
ashton lugay wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"My heart goes out to the Astaphan family on the loss of Johnathan and also to the rolle family well wishes on the recovery of their daughter. "
Jennifer & Colin White wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"Our condolences to the entire family. Ray had such a beautiful smile & a big heart I know he's smiling down at us. He's in the hands of the good Lord, may he rest in peace."
Marcellin Royer wrote on Jun 5, 2015:
"Everytime i heard that sound of your bike i knew it was you my boy little man and big bike i would say when u reach at the Ross Main Gate and pull out your ID. Rip and touch some lives up there while u didn't get to finish it down here. "
Rosamund Jolly wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"A student I never forgot in all those years. Pleasant, thoughtful, peaceful.
At home now."
Fred Hunter Memorial Services wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
""
Joseph Hinojosa wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"Sending thoughts and prayers to the Astaphan family and friends.. may these help you find peace..
-Ross library mates"
Tressy wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"Reginald and Jennifer,Our hearts are overflowing with sadness for you and your sons. At such a time,words are incapable of expressing our grief. We will pray for strength and courage.
Dwyer joins me in sending his love and prayers.
"
Jenner Caprice wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"My condolences to Jennifer and the entire family. You are in my thoughts and prayers."
Mona Hd. wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"I did not know you barely at all...I just remember studying across from you all those long 'all-nighter' cram sessions at the Ross library then bumping into you at Tulips. Honestly I didnt know you, but hearing of your passing has saddened me profoundly to a level I cannot explain. Yet reading how you touched so many people's lives, I can believe that my deep sadness comes from the fact you were such a good person that can touch someone's heart with every interaction you had with them... You had made it through such a hard part of our medical training, I sit here and question how you could be taken away so soon before you could impact this world on a profound level even later on as a doctor. But the only comforting thought is what they say in my country... "The purest spirits are taken up to Heaven sooner..." I think the impact to help those around you will continue forevermore..... I feel happy I knew someone like you even for such an extremely short time.
Deepest condolences to Raymond's family... May you find comfort at this difficult time knowing with every moment he lived he touched someone's life so much that even an almost stranger is shedding tears at his passing! Rest in eternal peace.... Love and light. "
Aline wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"May his sole rest in Peace, courage, love,and blessings to his loved ones parents, family and friends. Promising young man, left too early. "
Alvin and Catherine Thomas wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Astaphan and Tavenier family in this time of sorrow... Rest assured that the good Lord knows and directs it all...stay strong and blessed"
Cora wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"My condolences to Jennifer, Reginald, Steve and the entire Astaphan & Tavernier family on the loss of your dearest Raymond. "
Noreen wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
""
Connie Toulon wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"No one can prepare you for a loss. It comes like a swift wind. But take comfort in knowing that Raymond is now resting in the arms of our lord. My deepest condolences to you Jennifer, Steve and the rest of your entire family."
Murium wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"R.I.P"
Fagan Family wrote on Jun 4, 2015:
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Astaphan Family. It is with sadness that we say good bye so soon. God speed Raymond. May you live on for ever!
Peter and Antilla "
Mary Green wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"My thoughts and prayers are with Jennifer, Reginald, Steve, Jan, Neil and all the family members. Raymond's smile was very captivating, he exuded warmth and had a spirit that truly left a lasting impression on me. I saw and spoke to Raymond in Dominica in February this year, we shared our news with each other. He was fillied with so much enthusiasm about starting his internship in Florida and I was so happy for him. I shared my cancer diagnosis with him and he gave me a little reassuring pep talk.....I felt good. And that was Raymond! On my return to Toronto, he crossed my mind a few times, never for one second thinking that I would not see him again. It's so so sad....he will be greatly missed by all.
Raymond keep on captivating the Angels who surround you with that Smile.....RIP.
"
Sylvia. De Freitas wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Our Condolences to the family."
M. R. Belzince wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Ray, Ray and Ray. The bike rides home. The conversations in front of the library. The cooking sessions and the laughters and impromptu dancing... Your death is awfully shocking. Your loss is immeasurable. Your contagious smile and your radiant face will live on.
Deepest Condolences to the Astaphan & Tavernier families. "
Sasha Shillingford wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"I never met you but knew your mum. My prayers go out to your family in this time. Truly a tragic loss which touched me deeply. RIP "
Fayola Lawrence wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"RIP my friend. Your smile, your presence and your beautiful spirit will be missed. There is peace knowing your family and friends have amazing memories of you, with you. My prayers and condolensces to your family and loved ones. "
Joey and Anne-Marie wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Our heartfelt condolences to the entire family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in eternal peace. Many blessings from Joey and Anne-Marie Seignoret"
Gisele Pemberton wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"On behalf of the Pemberton sisters, we send our heartfelt condolences to the Astaphan family. We know words are of little comfort during this tragic time; we send our prayers and love.
"
maria darroux wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"My heart hurts even as I sit here and post this tribute... ray darling I will always remember the first day you started at Ross..I was the your first friend you made there.... I vividly remember our convo.. alas poor thing.. you surely will hunt my memory because after our convo I encouraged you to remain focus and you promised you would.. gone but not forgotten love.. fly with your angels sweet and true friend... tearssss"
Fanny Gomez wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Dear Jan and family,
I am sorry about your loss. My sincerest and deepest condolences to you in these very hard times. A big hug, Fanny. "
Monica Tapia wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"My deepest condolences to the whole family.
May he rest in peace."
Hilary F. Joseph wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Heartfelt sympathy to the family"
Julie Grajales wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"My deepest condolences go out to all of Ray's family and friends. He was a wonderfully generous and genuinely good person, and I know that he will be missed by many for a long time to come.
Rest peacefully, Ray. "
Sharon wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"We express our deepest Sympathy. Prayers going up for the Astaphan family.
Sharon - Ross University - Miramar I.T. Dept."
Aishah Bellot wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Ray, I know you are flying with the angels. You were so full of life, free and loved everyone. I remember when my brother Omari was here in 2013 and you came home to look for him, ohh what fun we had laughing and liming up by Wayne in Sylvinia. Creole festival that Saturday night was the best... we laughed, talked and danced till we were all tired. I would usually see you passing riding your bike and I would be like 'see him such an amazing guy'. The last time I saw you passing on your bike I called you, you answered, horned and gave me that big smile. I will never forget the smile and personality which lighted up any room, stadium or streets.
I will surely miss you and love you. Watch over your family, friends and all those who knew you in one way or the other and help us to find peace.
To his parents, sibblings and his family, I express my deepest sympathy to you and pray that you all find comfort and peace in one another and know that Ray is watching over all of us with that warm and big smile.
"
Katia Dutrieux wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"With heartfelt Condolences"
Verlie Shaw-Joseph wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Jennifer, Mom and Mickey join me in conveying heartfelt condolences to you and family. I cannot imagine the pain at losing a dear one so tragically but I pray that you and family will find comfort in the God of all Comfort and that the cherished memories that you have of your son, brother will sustain you as time passes. Love from us all."
Irving Andre wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Heartfelt sympathy to Jennifer and family."
M B wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the Astaphan family. May those precious memories of your dear loved one Raymond be foremost in your hearts and minds along with this wonderful promise that Jesus made at John 5:28,29. Again, my sincere condolences."
Enoch wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Ice Milk N'64 - A tribute to Raymond Astaphan
By: Enoch Astaphan
My brother Ray, we weren't born together,
Another mother, same month, a different year altogether.
But we grew up together, and we played together,
Party hats, birthday cakes and ice-cream together.
We spent our summers together, the whole clan together,
Slept on sponge mattresses on the floor together.
Went on vacations together, sun sand and sea together,
Swam in rivers, rode our bikes, sat at the back of vans together.
We learned together, went to school together,
Shared recess, schoolyard, broke bread together.
Walked home together, after lunch together,
Vanilla wafers, Ice milk, Granny's afternoons together.
We tested the boundaries, and broke the rules together.
Climbed trees, got in fights, and threw stones together.
Boys will be boys together, we took our blows together,
We cried, then we smiled and we laughed together.
We'd compete with each other, but we stuck together.
'Nough football and cricket in the yard together.
On the couch together, countless hours together,
Spent playing SNES and N'64 together.
...
As the years passed, we set out on different paths,
But the net kept us close, although somewhat in halves.
We'd meet up at big events, to share our life's moments.
Never once gave it a thought, that one could be our last.
...
Just as sure as birth,
One of us had to go first.
I'm sure we'll be together again,
But for now it hurts.
...
"
Kath Harty wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Kath,Derek,Rob,Sophia and Kanina
Jen and family
There are no words to express the loss of Raymond.We are thinking of yourself and family.With heartfelt sympathies"
ellena bowers wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Everyone has been talking thinking of you. You have left a good and positive impression on the hearts of everyone you knew or came in contact with!
Ray you have been called home for a reason we don't know what is but I am certain you will excel in heave as you have done on earth!
The way you lived your life on earth is an example for us all! That's the kind of legacy I want!! I'm happy you are with God buddy but how I wish I could tell you how awesome I think you were! God speed rest in eternal peace until I see you again in paradise !"
Judith Pestaina wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"Jennifer, Steve, Jan, Neil and the rest of the family who treasured such a wonderful son, sibling and relative. May the memories of times past give you comfort in your loss and God give you the strength and faith to carry on. With much love from Judith, Gene, Shelley, Warren and Grant."
Chantel wrote on Jun 3, 2015:
"One of a kind..my heart goes out to everyone who has ever crossed your path, I still can't believe this. What a beautiful man with a beautiful soul and a beautiful presence!"
Lorretta wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"Still can't believe your gone :( .. but the memories i will forever remember, be at rest my sweet angel ā?” "
Jeanna Francis wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"I remember watching the news that morning and then getting the phone call that it was you in that accident. You called me hours before . We always spoke of your dreams and everyone who knew you knows how sweet and generous you were. Your voice replays in my mind and my eyes get glassy all over again. I pray that you are at peace . Love always my friend xoxoxox rip ray "
Dione De Pooter wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"Although I didn't know him, I felt the sadness, grief, and horror as if I had. I shed tears over his early departure and for your pain as if I had. Words of comfort seem insufficient. At times when life becomes too difficult to comprehend I think of The Footprints in the Sand.....know that God is carrying you. Ray must have been an angel who was sent here to touch the lives of so many. Though his time with you may not have been enough, I'm sure he now watches over you and walks beside you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. "
Kimberly Alleyne wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"Ray, my sweet sweet friend. I've known you forever, growing up together and all the birthday parties. It wouldn't be until you moved to Toronto though, that we would become family.
We all held each other together..you, Jovi, Jabari, Keith, Jamie etc etc...the Thanksgivings and all the holidays and all our conversations on Fay's sofa with Dr. Love LOL. Those are some good memories...we loved those deep conversations with you, speaking about everything. I remember our personal conversations about what UofT was like, and the classes I was taking at the time that you would then have to take if you decided to go there...we spoke for hours and you decided to do it. I was soooo proud of you!! I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished! We had so much fun together, and we studied hard together...driving down to the library in your beat up car with "natural AC"...you were the best.
How amazing is it that one person can bring so much light into the world? I look at this picture posted here and I could stare into your eyes forever. You were always a beautiful soul.
If I can offer any comfort to your family it's in knowing that he has forever touched so many people and we all love him to bits! This is a hard one to swallow but I will forever carry you in my heart Ray. Love you now and always."
Carleen wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"My memories of Raymond are as a sweet child, everybody wanted to hold him and those eyes...those eyes so mesmerizingly beautiful! Didnt know him as the man he became, but with such a kind family he could not be any less than what he was. Right now I would be lying if I said to the family that the hurt ever goes away. Almost 12 years later and I still think of my brother every morning, I still miss his smile, his jokes, his voice and who would believe even our arguments....I just miss him! It gets better in time but the memories,longing and hurt of what could have been always linger just below the surface. Before my memories were filled with anguish and pain, sometimes too hard to even bear, but that too gets better! Now I laugh when my son who was not fortunate to have met his uncle calls his name, so naturally , like he is still a part of us. I shake my head when he says at every passing motorcycle" my uncle Wayne rode a bike". The memories sustain us...so hold on to them!! Asking why is normal, being angry is normal, but in time acceptance will wash in and usher the beautiful greater understanding that though gone from our sight, our loved ones are still so very much present. For the spirit lives on and is very much alive in our memories. So it's never goodbye but until we see again. I pray for the family, I pray that God comforts them in this time. As Wayne's death unified our family like never before, I pray that Raymond's memories become that glue that bonds everyone together. May they love even more, hug even tighter, kiss even longer, pray even more fervently, just enjoy and love each other so much more, for our time here is so fleeting. I pray that Raymond's spirit is in heaven...oh what great company he must have up there! So Raymond, the boy with the beautiful eyes until we see again.."
josephine mallalieu wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"Jennifer please know my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time - love Josephine Mallalieu StKitts"
Shadina wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"I was in total denialš??¢..what a dreadful day. First thing that came to mind was when we use to all hang out together. . Dale Jabs, bernie etc...We had mad fun.....*smile/crying.*mix emotions*Words can't express how i felt when i got that news.I looked forward to hanging out again but only God knows. That last hug you gave me , never thought it would be your last...sigh..You will be missed Ray.See you in the next life.Guide us down here..Rest Peacefully Bro.Much lve.Shads. "
Glenda Bedminister wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"I babysat Raymond as a little boy , he was a sweet kid, always smiling and wrestling with Miguel. Short and plump and very polite. I cant believe this is how and when I'm seeing him after so many years. His smile is still the same and he has not lost his baby face. RIP my boy."
Neil wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"Raymond Johnathan Astaphan aka King Jah/Ray
Blessed be the soul of the righteous. Righteousness is more than the ability to just be or do good. It is the ability to function positively for oneself and others creating a balance without judgement on actions. Raymond was always a very independent person, driving manual before the age of 13 and feet could barely touch pedals. He was a night person, loved himself very dearly and enjoyed so many activities especially socializing, sleeping/resting, video games, soccer. We were very active as children having the ability to shine in many areas both in and out of the house and country. We were always very close, we resembled each other and he was always a big brother to me without hesitation. He knew I would die or kill for him. Raymond is so special to me and I really wish I had the opportunity to meet you again. I always love you through the good and bad because even though we were angry or sad I still loved you for you. (so just be yourself)
Raymond was a special human being from euphoria to disaster to tranquility, street to med student, I wish I could have done more to facilitate and help us shine as diamonds. One of his greatest hopes and upsets sadly was family. He always wanted us to shine and saw the greatest potential between us. He was a strong dictator ot truth whether it hurt or not. He was someone I was separated from mid high school but when we met up again in Canada, he remembered me the same and he was still loving, caring, helpful, protective and advisor. He was helpful to me in every way and he saw great potential in me. I saw great potential in myself and I always recognised great potential in him. I always loved him. He was really about accelerating and connecting to grow and create the best life possible through hard work. Whether that meant getting a degree or meeting a new or old friend or family member. He is someone to be recognized for his ambition in many areas of his life especially relationships and school. There is so much I want to type and express but I know Raymond always recognized the inability to do it alone. His dreams were so great and impactful that he could not do it alone. He could not do it alone. He recogised the effect of us on each other. I am truly sorry for my situation in the past 7 years and I really was looking forward to meeting you and overcoming this finally. Theres is no one to blame and no man is perfect. Expectations lead to disappointment and a promise is a comfort to a fool. I LOVE YOU BRO!
"
Fred Hunter Memorial Services wrote on Jun 2, 2015:
"I am deeply sorry for your loss. I know that words can't lessen the pain you are feeling right now, but I hope that you can draw comfort from Isaiah 25:8 were it says death will be swallowed up forever and God will wipe away tears from all faces."
Warren G wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"My good ole faithful cousin Ray-man (Raymond), which is what I always called you. Just saying those words again brings me to tears! Tears that I am not afraid to shed for you even as a grown man because of the impact you have had on my life as a friend, cousin and sometimes even as an older brother. There are so many great memories I have of you from playing super Nintendo up at morne Daniel and that summer in st. Lucia when we stayed up all night, you, neil, issa, craigy and myself playing Halo on Xbox till the sun came up. You and i were a strong team on that "sweff" which u called it lol.I remember you saying "boy boy allu fellas not going an sleep boy look day breaking der" we laughed and finally went to bed. More recently I came home (D/a) to visit friends and family, you were the first to call me, Warren you reach yet nuh boy... let's go on a move. You picked me up in that small truck of uncle Reg lol. We didn't care we were rolling! Had a few drinks chilled spoke about family and the importance of staying connected, spoke about my Dad who wasn't well, u gave me comfort in the fact that he would be in a better place when the time came. It is those very words that I need now to find the strength and faith that you are in a better place no matter how hard it is to bear. You will forever be in my heart Ray-man till we meet again at the gates of heaven Rest In perfect Peace."
Ronald Astaphan wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"My cousin Raymond, we did not get the chance to spend much time together as adults but the time we did spend was treasured. Your infectious smile some how always gave me hope that things were not as bad as I thought they were, for if it was your smile would not be so angelic. You have left us way too soon but for my own sanity I have to believe that God knows best and that he knows that your work on earth is done and he needs you as another right hand to continue assisting him in his Blessed work. Look down on us smiling to guide and protect us. It is simply amazing how many lives you have positively touched in your short time here. Cuz you have caused every single one of us to rethink life and how we treat and deal with our loved ones. Your passing is a hard hard one to deal with, but it has brought us together like never before and for that we are eternally grateful. Much love and respect always cuz. "
Amy ames wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"My dear Raymond, words cannot truly express the pain I feel for your loss, but I will hold on to the many fond memories of us growing up together. All the wonderful summers we spent in Morne Daniel and Byack, all the jokes we shared, all the late nights we spent talking and just laughing. You truly enjoyed life to its fullest, and enjoyed a good laugh! A laugh I will truly miss! I remember when bannon came out with his song propeller, we cracked up on that song every night for almost a week! We all love you Ray, and we will be waiting for the day when we will see you again! I pray that God was waiting for you at the gates to heaven, where you belong, and that you were joined by the many angels including daddy, Pio and Wayne! May your soul rest in perfect peace cous, I love you!
"
Miguel Butler, your cousin wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"I have many fond memories of you Raymond. One that comes to mind is the summer spent with you in Goodwill. You were just a baby but such a beautiful one. Your eyes were bright. I'm proud to have known you. You grew up to be such a smart, calm, cool, sensible free spirit.
I remember when you just bought your motorbike and you brought it just for me to see. You sought my advice and genuinely listened.
One of the things I admired about you was your love for family, at Christmas you never forgot my boys.
The saying blood is thicker than water describes the relationship we had. Your openness and honesty is something I've always appreciated.
If ever you had an issue with a family member you always made it right.
There are many lessons to learn from how you lived your life, you knew when to play and when to be serious. You knew how to balance your life and went out there and made your entire family proud.
Your presence will be missed greatly but the memories of you will live on.
"
your brother Steve wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"You made me proud"
Mommzy wrote on Jun 1, 2015:
"My darling beloved son I thank God for this wonderful gift of your life go fly with the angels until we meet again."
Steve wrote on May 31, 2015:
"I'm sorry for your loss, I to know what it feels to lose a loved one to death. For many death seems to be a part of life. It's during times such as these that we can find comfort in the Bible. Psalms 34:18 assures us that God is near to those broken in heart and those crushed in spirit he saves. He also promises that we will be able to see our loved ones again. "There is going to be a resurrection"-Acts 24:15. Also, Revelation 21:4 gives us great hope of seeing our loved ones again: "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. John 5: 28, 29, Acts 24: 15, are also text with hope that someday we can see our loved ones again. We need not fear anymore for God has promise in Isaiah 25:8 that he will swallow up death forever" what great joy to be able to live forever without the fear of losing our loved ones again. We all hope for that."