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
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 FamilyJoe Ravu
Big Joe the legend, it was such a pleasure and honour to have known you as a good friend and a first class soldier, I think of you with the highest regard and respect. A true farmers boy. RIP old friend.Your daughter has many of your kind and generous qualities, may you now rest in peace and sing among the angels. X
Recognising a life well lived
Meeting Jo and his fellow Fijians on arrival in the Battalion in Osnabruck 1982 was both a shock and a huge pleasure. Larger than life, a gentle giant who commanded respect instantly. I only have fond memories of every connection with him and as a young officer joining that was so appreciated.To be able to visit Jo and Una and their lovely family in Suva in 2000 brought me such joy. Their generosity and kindness mark them both as truly special people. Jo - you will be missedfg and always remembered. Rest in Peace.
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