Howard Ray Tuttle

In Loving Memory of Howard Ray TuttleApril 29, 1957 – May 5, 2025Howard Ray Tuttle, affectionately known as Ray, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on the evening of Monday, May 5, 2025. He was 68 years young.

Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on April 29, 1957, Ray embarked on a life of purpose and service. Ray enlisted with the United States Navy in 1978, skipping several ranks, began his service as a Radioman and served with honor and distinction for 26 years, retiring as a Senior Chief. Senior Chief Tuttle was honoured with the following Naval Medals: Commendation, Achievement, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct, Humanitarian Service, National Defense Service, Expeditionary Services, and Outstanding Volunteer Service. In his life, Ray had earned countless merits, the last of which was an honor he received for giving the gift of sight as an organ benefactor. 

During his career in the United States Navy, he went to the University of Washington to receive a Bachelor's of Arts English Degree graduating summa cum laude. Never one to stop growing, Ray pursued higher education in his late 50s, earning a Master's of Science in Information Systems Management. This led him to work as a Contract Technical Writer for Genova Technologies, writing an operator manual for the Integrated Supply Information System - that's still in use today. 

After retiring from active duty, Ray continued his commitment to service as a Civilian Port Operations Technician for the Department of Defense. In his words—borrowed from his own résumé—his job was to “ensure vessels entering or working in the Puget Sound received all services in a timely manner” basically communicating between people moving in and out of the sound - making sure PSNS ran smoother than a brand-new coffee maker.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Daniel Tuttle and Roxie Leomia Nelson Tuttle. He is survived by his beloved brother, Mike Tuttle; his cherished daughters, Meranda and Cassandra Tuttle; son-in-law, Brandon Shepard; and his former wife of 44 years and mother of his children, Carolyn Tuttle. He also leaves behind a vast and loving chosen family—friends and kindred spirits who became family through his open heart and boundless generosity.

Ray wore many hats—literally and figuratively. He was a devoted son, lifelong friend, a decorated Senior Chief, Eagle Scout, scholar and literary enthusiast, editor, runner, music aficionado, community volunteer, clown, world traveler, avid camper, a loving husband, partner, and Santa Claus. Of all his roles, the one he never faltered in was being a father. His daughters were the light of his life, and he often said they were his greatest accomplishments.

An adventurer at heart, Ray made friends wherever he went. With his jubilant ocean-blue eyes and his gift for conversation, he had a rare ability to make anyone feel seen and heard. Like his father before him, Ray believed a stranger was just a friend he hadn’t met yet—and he lived that belief every day. 

Ray's creativity and desire for continued education never wavered. His projects were ceaseless with plans for gardening, stained glass, scrapbooking, cooking; he had too many interests. Throughout his life he was a cornerstone of producing distinguished events. Running was a hobby he picked up and revisited while establishing the Race for Literacy, and Rainbow Run. His crowning achievement at the pique of his physique was completing the Honolulu Marathon; the fourth largest marathon in the United States. In addition to running, he was a fan of frisbee golf and loved to find new courses. His love of volunteering shown through in his daily routines; he was always in search of a project outlet. Ray established many family fun days for the Military Families while in service, he gave his time to a yearly Haunted House, volunteered with Headcount, June Fair, took time to be Santa or a clown for local events, and would help with absolutely any fundraiser he was acquisitioned for. Ray’s kindness was legendary. About 15 years ago, he embraced a Santa Claus persona, dressing up every year to deliver hand-wrapped presents. He found joy in giving—often in the form of music and books. Sharing music was one of his greatest passions. What began as a daily email of artistic musings evolved into Daily Arty Facts, a website he launched in 2013 under the LLC MERCASTUTPRODUCTION celebrating all things art. 

Ray Tuttle was a force of nature; a man who could do anything—and usually did. He was the most full of life, until he wasn’t. 

Ray was deeply loved, endlessly curious, and unfailingly kind. He leaves behind a legacy built not only on service and achievement but on love, laughter, and human connection. He was our Ray of Sunshine, without him, the world feels a little dimmer—but his light will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created.

We invite all who knew and loved Ray to join us in celebrating his life June 8th from 1:30pm–3:30pm at the Kitsap Regional Library, Sylvan Way Branch. A memorial after-party will follow at Ray's home for extended family and friends. Please skip the black attire and show up in something of funky fashion, colorful, or just downright festive. Ray wouldn’t have it any other way.

The family would love if you share your memories and photographs of Ray on his memorial page.

Fair winds and following seas, Ray. You will be missed beyond measure.