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JOSHUA ISLAM Obituary
Joshua Islam, age 18 of Gainesville, passed away Monday, January 13, 2014 at Camp Pendleton, CA. Josh was born January 19, 1995 in Gainesville, Florida to James Skender and Donna Lynne Willis Islam. He grew up in Weddington, North Carolina, where he was a student, baseball player, and fisherman.
Josh graduated from Weddington High School with honors in June 2013. He was a proud member of Weddington's back-to-back state championship teams in 2012 and 2013. He considered his teammates to be his family. Throughout high school Josh maintained a strong determination to serve our country. He trained with the Marines most Saturdays during his senior year of high school and enlisted in the Marine Corps through the delayed entry program. He wanted to be the best and was focused on Infantry. He graduated boot camp near the top of his class at Parris Island on October 3, 2013. Josh continued training at Camp Geiger, NC. He graduated ITB/SOI January 9, 2014 and was promoted to Private First Class.
PFC Islam was selected to train to be a reconnaissance Marine at Camp Pendleton, CA. He died among his brothers, following his dream and giving 110% to his last breath. But he and his family know this is not the end. Their hope is in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, through a saving faith in Him.
He is survived by his parents, James and Donna Islam; paternal grandfather, Jim Islam and wife Marilyn; maternal grandmother, Karen Willis; siblings, Jarrett, Shannon, Victoria, Levi, Abigail, and Devin Islam and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by paternal grandmother, Joan Islam and maternal grandfather, Walter Willis.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, January 23, 2014 at 2:00 p.m., at Westside Baptist Church, 10000 West Newberry Road. Interment will follow in Countryside Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in Indian Trail, NC on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 1:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Indian Trail.
Josh did not love flowers. A memorial fund has been established which will support youth baseball, childhood cancer treatment and support, and Junior Marine Corps ROTC. Honor gifts may be sent to Joshua M. Islam, PO Box 358301, Gainesville, FL 32635. A foundation is being created to honor Josh's memory. Joshua19foundation.org
Arrangements are under the care of Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Westarea, 823 NW 143rd Street. Please visit his memorial page at:
www.williamsthomas
funeralhome.com
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
WILLIAMS-THOMAS
WESTAREA
(352) 376-7556
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOSHUA ISLAM
Sponsored by A friend and admirer of the Islam family.
Brenda Gearheart
January 13, 2024
I will never forget you Joshua Islam!
Semper Fi
Brenda Gearheart
Gold Star Mom of
LCPL Benjamin H. Gearheart
Brenda Gearheart
January 13, 2023
Thank you for your service Joshua Islam! I will never forget. Semper Fi
Brenda Gearheart
Gold Star Mom of
LCPL Benjamin Gearheart
TIMOTHY STOCKTON
August 21, 2016
After careful and devoted research I have found this story of particular interest to myself. I am so saddened by this story as I believe synchronicity has brought me to indirectly know the family. With much love I send to you.
May 30, 2014
Dear Islam Family,
I am saddened of your loss and proud of your legacy - as a family, you represent the memory of Joshua with a tremendous dignity of devotion to God, Country and Service. I pray I could do the same. God Bless you and your Joshua.
Very Respectfully,
Joseph McNamara, CWO CAARNG
ASO
Los Alamitos, CA
Brenda Gearheart
March 8, 2014
I was saddened to learn about your precious Josh. Our Marine son also died at Camp Pendleton. During a training maneuver his LAV went down a 1400 ft embankment. He was Recon as well. You and your family are most profoundly in my heart and prayers. Brenda - Gold Star Mom of LCPL Ben
Sharon Collins
February 14, 2014
I do not know the family personally nor did I know Joshua. I have a son, same age, same story, in the same place right now receiving the same training. I cannot imagine the pain and the loss, my heart aches for all of you. I will keep you all in my prayers. I pray that Josh can rest in peace and watch over you all. I pray that his family can find peace as well. I am so sorry for your loss. May God Bless Josh and each and every one of his family members and friends.
Ann O'Hanlon and Joann Foucart
February 9, 2014
I recently visited my mother and we were looking over her grandson, Kyle Deacon's, graduation pictures, and there were pictures of your Josh with Kyle! We talked about the wonderful opportunities we had in meeting your son, and how he was always so polite and friendly. He went out of his way to engage us in conversations. I remember thinking how I hoped my boys, of similar age, would display the same degree of interest and respect to relative strangers if the occasions would occur. What a tragedy that such a young, shining star is gone. Our hearts ache for your loss.
Jeff and Becky Paul
February 3, 2014
Jim and Donna, Our love and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. The "celebration of life" was the most beautiful service I have ever attended and for those who may not have known Josh as well as others, leaving that service you were honored to have a glimpse into his life and how he touched so many...as well as the wonderful young man that he was and what a truly special family you are! He was truly honored and will live on in all of our hearts.
ELAINE DILLS
January 26, 2014
JOSHUA 1:19
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
ELAINE DILLS
January 26, 2014
I do not know you. I do not know your family. My heart still aches for your loss. I was proud to honor this young hero at his Celebration of Life at First Baptist Indian Trail. He sounded a fine young man and is a loss to us all.
Marty Costello
January 25, 2014
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Islam family during this season of difficult transition and grief.
I, as a Travel baseball coach, had the honor of coaching Josh for a short time with the Piedmont Panthers prior to coaching against him with the South Charlotte Pirates. Although I never had the opportunity to truly get to know Josh intimately, his core character always shined brightly above all those around him. It was clear to me that Josh's cornerstone values were strong work ethic, teamwork, positive attitude, selflessness and respect & love for others.
What a fine young man taken from us way to soon. Josh you will be missed and remembered.
May you have eternal peace, love & close relationship with our Father in Heaven forever.
Coach Marty Costello
Charlotte, NC
Lyna Williams
January 25, 2014
My prayers remain with your family during these difficult times. So very sorry for the loss of Joshua.
SJ Sooze
January 24, 2014
A life lived well but cut too short.
God Rest your soul and Thank-You for your inspiraton.
To America's son, from an American Mom.
January 24, 2014
We are so sorry to hear about Joshua. Our prayers are with you!
Carole Brooks & Eric Antiga
Larry and Judy Starnes
January 23, 2014
Josh played baseball with our grandson Daniel Calabretta. We always thought he was a fine young man and so talented. God surround you with his love at this difficult time.
January 23, 2014
joshua you were my son Davids best friend in soi school.He remembers your long conversations about your goals and dreams and is determined to carry your memory with him always.He loved you Islam.He will see you in GLORY.
Nancy Morrison
January 23, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kimberly Browne
January 23, 2014
My deepest condolences on your loss.
Betsy Bolch
January 23, 2014
To the entire Islam family and friends, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin Dreher
January 23, 2014
Jim, I am so sorry to hear of you loss. May God be with you and your family through this time of need and comfort you with the knowledge that you will all be together again some day in a much better place that God has planned for us all. Psalms 70:20-21
Buddy Hines
January 23, 2014
Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant Josh. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive him into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.
May his soul and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
~The Episcopal Book of Common Prayer~
The Kearneys
January 23, 2014
May the Lord wrap you all in His warm embrace and provide you with peace and comfort. Our deepest sympathies to the entire Islam Family.
Karen Mike
January 23, 2014
Thinking of you and praying Josh is safe in the arms of our Precious Saviour xo
January 22, 2014
Dearest family of PFC Islam, I wish you strength and love in this most difficult time. My son also graduated Boot Camp in Mike Company with your Marine. I will think of Josh and hold you all close in my heart. Peace be with you all.
Melissa
January 22, 2014
Henrietta and Richard Armitage
January 22, 2014
So sadden by the news.... Faith will help you all carry on.
JULIE JOHNSON
January 21, 2014
?? JAMES, DONNA, AND THE ENTIRE ISLAM FAMILY, I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR OF THE TRAGIC LOSS OF YOUR BELOVED JOSHUA!! MY FAMILY AND I EXTEND OUR DEEPEST, MOST HEARTFELT SYMPATHIES TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR LOSS!! WE'LL LIFT YOU UP IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS AS YOU GO THROUGH THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME!! KEEP YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AROUND YOU, AND TRUST IN YOUR FAITH IN GOD, KNOWING THAT YOU'LL BE REUNITED WITH JOSHUA IN HEAVEN... NEVER TO BE SEPARATED AGAIN!! MUCH LOVE ALWAYS!! ??
Rita Munoz Ford
January 21, 2014
Memories are the legacy of love. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless.
January 21, 2014
You have our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy on your loss of Joshua....and our pledge to remember.
Marty and Jan
Marine vet parents
Jacqueline Klaassen
January 21, 2014
James and Donna, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Your faith in Jesus will carry you through. Sending prayers to you and your family.
Karen Mike
January 21, 2014
Thinking of you and your family at this terribly painful time. I just have no words, so very sorry, Islam family and friends. He was a great kid who will be missed by all xo
Rhonda Wolff
January 20, 2014
Donna, James and family, I am so sorry and saddened by your loss. May you find piece in God's love.
Rhonda Turner Wolff aka Demi's aunt.
Dorothy Noland
January 20, 2014
God's peace and comfort during this difficult time. An entire nation of Marine moms are praying for and lifting you up.
Susan Horton
January 20, 2014
As a friend and member of Joshua's aunt Diana's Bible study group, his loving family and friends are in our prayers with thanks for the blessings Diana shared about her beloved nephew and his faith in Jesus Christ.
January 20, 2014
Janet and Randy Akerson
January 20, 2014
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your son and grandson. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim Hencin
January 20, 2014
To the entire Islam family, I extend my deepest condolences.
Roger & Evelyn Snyder
January 20, 2014
As parents that have lost a son we can only tell you we know the pain you feel, the part of your heart that has gone with Joshua. Please know that our Loving Father is there with you and carrying you in the palm of His Hands. May God bless you, and may you know Joshua is in our Fathers Hands. [email protected]
Sister of a Marine
January 20, 2014
May your family be blessed with strength and courage during this time.
Fr. Jim O'Neal
January 20, 2014
To The Entire Islam Family:
Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your beloved, Josh. Your tribute to him is very touching. Thank you for sharing it with all of us! I know your family from my time as assistant pastor at St. Patrick's in Gainesvilel. I will offer Mass for him and the entire family at the Catholic chapel at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, where I am stationed. God bless him and all of you!
Tony and Trudy Zahn
January 20, 2014
So very sorry for your loss. Praying for peace for your family.
The Kraus Family, Mike Company #3077
January 20, 2014
Our Marine graduated boot camp with your son. Our hearts are heavy with sadness as you mourn the loss of your son, Josh. We pray for God to hold you in His hands and that you find comfort in His love, and the love of family and friends.
Our deepest sympathy,
Michelle Lopez
January 20, 2014
My son is in Marine boot camp now and my heart aches for you. I'm sending my deepest sympathy during this very difficult time.
Mom of a Marine
January 20, 2014
Our deepest sympathies to your family over the loss of your precious son. While not in the same company at Parris Island as our son, they graduated from ITB together. There are no words that can ease your pain. Just know every Marine family holds you in our arms as you grieve your devastating loss.
joann Reda
January 20, 2014
The American War Mothers, Maryland's Star Spangled Chapter, offer our deepest condolences on the loss of your precious hero.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
January 20, 2014
Semper Fi!
Celeste Biggs (formerly McConkey)
January 20, 2014
My son graduated from Mike Co. 3rd BTN the same time as Joshua. From my MoM heart I send continuous thoughts and prayers of healing for your family.
Stacey Moyer
January 20, 2014
May God bring you comfort and peace as Josh must have brought you great pride! This Marine mom is thinking of you.
Semper Fi! Mike Co. #3073
Shorty and Lois Whetzel
January 20, 2014
There are no shortcuts through grief, only a path , along which our Lord himself has walke and will walk with us with his gentle strength. Our deepest sympathy to you and all who knew and love you wonderful son.
Cheryl LeFort
January 20, 2014
My nephew also graduated from bootcamp with your son in October and I am deeply saddened by this tragedy. I pray you find peace and comfort during this difficult. And may your Marine rest in peace ?
Michelle Barton-Keeble
January 20, 2014
To the family of a Marine that is gone to soon. My pray for you is Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Also that he will give you strength from day to day. From your PI family Marines forever
Vinnie Accardi
January 20, 2014
Rest easy Marine. Be at peace in Gods hands. May he Bless you and your family this day. Our nation morns your passing but thank God men like you have lived. We honor you this day and forever. Your Marine Corps family and parents of a fellow Marine.
Billie Moynihan
January 20, 2014
May god bless your son as He carries him home. You are in our hearts and prayers. <3
Michelle Lewter
January 19, 2014
We are praying that GOD will wrap you in the comfort of knowing that your son has gone on to new adventures in Heaven and that you will see him again. Praying for all of Joshua's family and friends. A Marine Mom.
Katie Zipperer
January 19, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Lots of love from your Mighty Mike family. We will always be proud of your wonderful young Marine.
Donna Smith
January 19, 2014
James and Donna, I cannot put into words how heavy my heart is. Praying you will feel the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
Donna Owen Smith, formerly of Gainesville, Fl
Tom/Bev Zingarella
January 19, 2014
Our Marine gaduated boot camp with your Marine in October. We mourn alongside you. We pray you find comfort in the beautiful memories you made with Joshua.
Ronda Alley
January 19, 2014
Dear Islam Family.
I want to express my deepest sympathy over the loss of your son Joshua. It is a loss that has been felt by your whole Mike Co. family. Our hearts and prayers have been with you since we found out. May the Lord comfort you and strengthen you in the days ahead.
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted." Math 5:4
Carmen Byers
January 19, 2014
Donna and Family, May God give you the peace that passes all of our understanding. May He wrap His mighty arms around you now and always with His comfort. We'll never forget your Marine! Thanking PFC. Joshua Islam for his service and sacrifice!
Rebecca Baker
January 19, 2014
My heart aches for your family and Marine who left this earth too soon. As a fellow Marine mom, I can't imagine the pain you are feeling and only hope you find some strength in the support from our Mike Co family. Rest in peace, Joshua. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Ronda Alley
January 19, 2014
Dearest Islam Family
I wanted to express my heartfelt sorrow on the loss of your son Joshua. It is a loss felt by all of your Mike Co. family. Our hearts and prayers have been with you all week. May the Lord comfort you all during this sad time and give you the strength that you nee to move forward.
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted." Math 5:4
Laura Evon
January 19, 2014
Praying for you and your family during this very difficult time.
Felicia Drake
January 19, 2014
I am sorry for the loss of your son I pray for peace over your family. ...RIP MARINE!!!!
Joie Zorman
January 19, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this very difficult time. My son went through bootcamp and SOI/ITB with your son and I can't imagine the pain you are feeling. Please know your Marine family is here if you need anything at all.
Bren Mother of a Marine
January 19, 2014
Our sons became friends at School of Infantry at Camp Geiger. I am so very sorry to learn of Joshua's death. My prayers are with you all as you rest in our Savior's everlasting arms. May you feel His strong embrace, comfort and the peace that only He can give during this most difficult time. What a privilege to know that we do not sorrow as those who have no hope.
January 19, 2014
I will keep you and your Marine in my prayers. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Janice Baumann Marine Mom
January 19, 2014
My heart goes out to the family. Find comfort in raising a fine boy who chose to serve our country and who now will be keeping watch in Heaven.
Yvonne MendozaVasquez
January 19, 2014
Thank you for your heart passion and committment. It will not be forgotten!
Donna/James you are to be proud!!!?
Terri, Tim Lee & Luke Williams
January 19, 2014
James, Donna, Jarrett, Shannon and family:
Just wanted you to know our family is praying for all of you at this time. Haven't seen you in years but still think of you especially when talking about our GCA days. Yours son sounds like an amazing young man! I know you are proud and you deserve to be. Thankful that he knew the Lord Jesus Christ and that we will all see him again one day! We will continue to pray for strength for all of you to get through this time. The Williams Family
Candi Richards
January 19, 2014
So sorry for your loss
~Marine Mom
Cindy Williams
January 19, 2014
Words can't express my heartfelt sympathy. I love you guys, dearly.
Sherry Elliott
January 19, 2014
James, Donna & family-Please accept my sincere sympathy for all of you. I remember Josh as "Joshie" with big beautiful blue eyes, blonde hair & a sweet personality. He was always smiling, laughing and having a good time. What an Honorable young man and Marine Josh was. My thoughts and Prayers are with all of you during these trying times.
Love, Sherry Elliott and Jeffrey Islam
Deanna Bredbenner
January 19, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart has been hurting for you since I heard the news. Please know your Marine family is mourning your loss with you. God bless you and keep you in the palm of His hand during this time.
Marine Mom
Deanna Bredbenner
The Sciascia Family
January 19, 2014
May your Marine rest in peace
Jenny & Matt Kern & family
January 19, 2014
Our deepest sympathies are with you for the loss of this fine young man.
Melanie Erxleben
January 19, 2014
Donna, James and family, I am at a loss for words. My thoughts, prayers and love are with all of you, for peace and comfort, in this time of sadness. You know I understand your pain and heartache and am here for you always ...
sheila krakower
January 19, 2014
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your precious son. As grandparents of a future Marine, our hearts feel your pain. God Bless you and your family.
Tammy Opel
January 19, 2014
I am just so heartbroken to hear of the loss of your Marine. May God wrap you in his loving arms to give you peace, comfort, and strength for now and always. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marine Mom,
Tammy Opel
Family of PFC Sean O'Keefe
January 19, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to your family. May god give you strength during this heartbreaking time.
Terri Wall
January 19, 2014
From this marine family to yours, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Such a terrible tragedy.
January 19, 2014
Donna I am so sadded to learn of Joshs death. Wish there was something we could say or do, but please know you are in our hearts and prayers. Love you.
Bonnie and Bob Mays
Rincon, Ga.
Debbie Nagy
January 19, 2014
I wish that there was something I could say that would ease your pain. I can only let you know the pain I feel in my heart for you. I am sorry that I never got a chance to personally know Joshua but he will always be in my heart and in my prayers. I will also keep you and your family in my heart and in my prayers. Thank you for raising such a fine young man and a true HERO.
Kathy Janosz
January 19, 2014
From one marine family to another, our hearts ache for your family we send prayers that you receive comfort from family to help you through this most difficult time, my son Pfc janosz graduated with Joshua at soi he told me what a great person and marine he was , they had spent time together digging a 8 foot by 8 foot fox hole and spent 2 days together alone in it they both learned Lots about each other. Your son left a lasting impression on my. God bless you all Kathy janosz and family from mass
Jayne Tainsh
January 19, 2014
Sorry you lost your ..... HERO.................sending my prays to you from one mom to another..........
January 19, 2014
So Very sad May God be with the family of Pf. Josh Islam A True American hero as they honor his precious memory
Joel Tokar
January 19, 2014
James & Donna,
Words can't explain my deepest sympathy for your loss .Gods help will get you thru.
mildred broad
January 19, 2014
very sorry about your loss of josh
i lost my josh on easter sunday 2012 you are in my prayers
Mary
January 19, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Islam family. May God bless you and hold you close during this difficult time. From one Marine family to another.
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