News Summary Colonel David J. Toye, a cherished member of the Smith Hill community in Providence, RI, has passed away at the age of 88. He is remembered fondly by his wife, Joanne E. Toye, and a loving family. Colonel Toye had a distinguished military career, serving in various leadership roles within the Rhode Island Army National Guard before retiring as a Colonel. He received numerous awards and maintained active involvement in community events, showcasing his dedication to service and family. Providence, RI: Colonel David J. Toye, US Army, Ret., Passes Away at 88 Colonel David J. Toye, US Army, Ret., aged 88, passed away on September 19, 2025, at Hope Health Hospice Center in Providence, RI. He is mourned by his beloved wife, Joanne E. Toye, with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage. Colonel Toye lived almost his entire life in the Smith Hill community of Providence, a neighborhood he cherished deeply. He attended Saint Patrick’s School and Hope High School, graduating in the class of 1957 before furthering his education at Rhode Island College. Survived by Family In addition to his wife, David Toye is survived by several family members, including his niece Gail Carson-Fernandes, niece Peggy Carson, great-nephews Zachary and Lucas Fernandes, and great-great-nephew Dominic Fernandes. He was predeceased by his parents, John J. and Anna M. (Tracey) Toye, brother John J. Toye, sister Anne P. Carson, niece Jean Carson, and nephew William O. Carson III. Military Career Colonel Toye began his military career by enlisting in the Rhode Island Army National Guard in February 1956 while still in high school. He quickly ascended through the ranks, moving from Sergeant to Second Lieutenant after graduating from the Rhode Island Officer Candidate School, Class #7. His service included essential roles as: Commanding Officer of the 1043rd Maintenance Company Commander of the Headquarters Detachment State Area Command Senior advisor to The Adjutant General in equipment operation and maintenance Colonel Toye’s leadership extended further as he held senior positions such as Superintendent of the Combined Support Maintenance Operation and Director of Maintenance for the Rhode Island National Guard. He was promoted to the rank of Colonel in 1990 and retired in 1992. During his military education, he attended various notable Army courses including the US Army Command and General Staff College and the National Defense University – Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Awards and Honors Throughout his illustrious career, Colonel Toye received numerous awards and decorations, including the Samuel Sharpe Award from the US Army Ordnance Association and the Rhode Island Star awarded by the Governor of Rhode Island. He also held a life membership in the Association of the US Army, Military Order of Foreign Wars, and the Providence Marine Corps of Artillery. Colonel Toye took pride in his role conducting annual drum beat duties at the Infantry Lodge Association on November 11th at the Squantum Club in East Providence, RI. Visitation and Mass Visitation for Colonel Toye will take place on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 am at Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, located at 331 Smith Street, Providence. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 am at St. Patrick Church, 244 Smith Street, Providence. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick Academy, 244 Smith Street, Providence, RI 02908. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Additional Resources Providence Journal: Colonel David J. Toye, US Army, Ret., Passes Away at 88 Wikipedia: United States Army Providence Journal: Colonel David J. Toye Obituary Google Search: Rhode Island Army National Guard Providence Journal: Colonel Toye’s Military Career Google Scholar: Military Leadership Providence Journal: Toye Family Legacy Encyclopedia Britannica: Military Awards Providence Journal: Funeral Arrangements for Colonel Toye Google News: Providence RI Obituaries
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