The Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum
The Wardrobe, Salisbury
The Society of Friends
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Josese Ravu. After bravely battling a short illness, Jo passed away peacefully at his home on the 7 December 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather , great grandfather and friend who will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
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For those of you not on Facebook The funeral of Sgt Jo Ravu - Late DERR -12 December 2025
Joe: Sorry to miss not saying goodbye to an old comrade. You and I on duty late at night one Christmas in Osnabruck
A friend and guide. Thanks for all the help and wisdom you gave me. R.I P.Joe Ravu
Fond memories of serving with Joe, especially grateful for his protection in the rugby team. Condolences to all his familyR. I. P.
I served with Joe in Malta/Germany. Plus Joshua Syasy Balamatuku. I was Balimatuks 432 driver. I thought the world and had a deap respect for the Fijian members of 1 DERR. I still have a photo of Bali. Climbing a Palm tree on a beach in Libya bear foot no climb equipment. Plus he taught me how to body surf. Iv only recently been aware of both passing. Sad but some great memories of. both. RIP.lifelong memories
The biggest smile and biggest heart of anyone we know. I knew him as a child right through to our wedding when he was there beaming.B had the pleasure of seeing him again on his trip to Fiji in Sept 2008. Such happy memories.
Travel safely Big Joe.
Those great Fijians
I was fortunate to know Joe and his two fellow-Fijians Messrs Baleimatuku and Turaga in I think Malta and certainly in Minden in 1 DERR in 1965-67.I had huge respect for their loyalty to the Regiment and the Crown, physical strength but mild manners, professionalism , and fun.
I well remember the look of dread on the faces of the opposition when they faced us at kickoff on the rugby field which became justified a few seconds later.
May you rest in peace Joe. You were a credit to Fiji , the Regiment and the British Army.
To be a Farmers Boy
It was with great sadness that I learned of Jo Ravu's final journey. As a young officer, I remember him as one of those figures in the Regiment that really stood out, not just because of his physical presence, but through his professionalism , ability to get on with all ranks and his delightful personality that radiated to all. A hugely respected character, a great representative of Fiji and a Farmers Boy to the end.It was truly an honour to have served with him in the 1st Battalion, The Duke of Edinburgh's Royal Regiment (Berkshire and Wiltshire).
To Una and family, we all share your grief and remember him with pride and think of "Of the lucky day he came that way, To be a Farmer's Boy"
Joe
Well it’s a sad farewell to a real soldier and gentleman, someone who was a pleasure to serve with and an honour to know, condolences to all his family and my final words are sleep tight my friend, we will meet again in the future, god bless.In Memorials
It was my honour and pleasure to have served with Joe. He was an ambassador to Figi and the regiment.:I remember an incident while Joe was representing the Regiment at Bisle, he entered 5he Fish and Chip shop we’re my parents worked in Salibury were a number of youths were causing trouble he segested they left and escorted them out Joe turned for free fish and chips. Your prayer are with the family at this sad time RIP Farmers boyRemembering Joe
Served with this great guy on many tours, and real friend and gentleman. Rest in peace mate.Memories
Joe Ravu was a gentleman and an ambassador for the Regiment and Figi. Joe lead by example with high standard. It was my honour to have serve along side him as a friend and farmer boy . Condolences to the FamilyTerms & Conditions
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