Our hearts go out to James' family in the midst of this tragedy which has touched us all very deeply.
Donations from those interested are appreciated in James' honor. Donations in the form of checks can be made out to WorldTeach with "The James de Brueys Fund" on the subject line. Donations can also be made through the WorldTeach website by selecting the "Donate Now" button at the top right corner of the website. Funds contributed will be used by WorldTeach for James' students in the Marshall Islands via projects James initiated and hoped to complete in his time there.
Please share your thoughts below as a comment to this post and we will pass your messages along to James' family.
My husband and I were in the first group to go to the Marshalls, through World Teach, in 2002. I want the family to know that James was loved and appreciated during his time with the Marshallese. They are very sweet people and they so appreciate the work the volunteers are doing there.
ReplyDeleteI hope James is found. The potential of your loss is something I can not even phathom. So much love and hope is sent to you. Laura
As the parents of a one of James' fellow volunteers in the Marshall Islands, we send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the DeBrueys family. Although we did not know James, we feel that his spirit is one we recognize - that of an energetic, adventurous, emphathetic, kind and generous young person who wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. From the little we know about James, it seems he succeeded in ways big and small, known, unknown and unknowable. May all of you take comfort in his memory and in knowing that he lived his life in a way that ensures he will never be forgotten, because to live in the hearts of others, is not to die. While we cannot pretend to imagine your pain, we grieve James' loss and hope that if there is anything we can do do assist or comfort, you will let us know. In the meantime, we have made a donation in James' name to WorldTeach for projects to benefit his students. With our deepest sympathies,
ReplyDeleteLiz and Dan Finberg
Our hearts and tears, along with our prayers go out to James' family. As parents of a former WorldTeach volunteer in the Marshall Islands, I think we know how excited James must have been to go on this adventure. In everything written about him, his exuberance of life stands out. James gave so many people pleasure and laughter and although we didn't know him personally, we feel like we lost someone very special. May your faith help support you and may you feel the love, prayers and thoughts of countless people during this very hard time.
ReplyDeleteWith love, Debbie and Jeff Chutz
I volunteered in the Marshall Islands from 2005-2006. I am deeply saddened to hear the news of James. My thoughts are with James' family, the current volunteers, and the people of Arno Atoll who mourn the loss of James and their family members/friends. Please know that you are in my thoughts. I never had the opportunity to meet James, but I know he has affected the lives of many and his loss is greatly felt at this time. Many thoughts are coming your way.
ReplyDeleteTo James' family and friends: As a former WorldTeach volunteer in the RMI (2005-2006), I wanted to share with you my sorrow for your loss. Although I never had the privilege of meeting James, he was a part of our circle - a vital link in the chain of providing assistance and friendship to the Marshallese people. I am so thankful for his commitment and have immense respect for his character and dedication. James was clearly devoted to making the most of every moment and pursuing his passions; his life made a uniquely positive impact on those around him. It's so difficult to find the right words, but I hope that you will know that there is a larger family grieving his loss, honoring his memory, and sending you love during this time.
ReplyDeleteWishing you peace, Amy
To the family and loved ones of James, I was deeply saddened to receive the news about your missing son. My daughter also chose to spend a year on the Arno Atoll in the village of Ine. I have ridden in the village boats, shared in the Marshallese hospitality and swam in the atoll waters. I left my tiny adventure with a clearer understanding of the World Teach mission and of the sacrifices the young volunteers make to provide an educational opportunity to not only the Marshall Islands but worldwide. Thank you James for contributing to this worthy cause, for having the vision and the desire to give so unselfishly, your wisdom, your language, and your kindness. My thoughts and my prayers are with all of you during this extremely difficult time. May you find peace, Kim Foster
ReplyDeleteAs a former WT volunteer in the RMI I know that James' contributions to the people he touched are unimaginable. James, his travel companions and their families are in my thoughts are prayers.
ReplyDelete-Melissa
Our thoughts and prayers are with the DeBreuys family. Our son spent a year in the program on Majuro. The contribution that the volunteers make is truly inspirational. The part they play in "healing the world" cannot be measured. May his memory be a blessing. The Robinson Family
ReplyDeleteTo the friends and family my heart goes out. Having volunteered in a similar situation in the pacific I know that James will have had a huge impact on his students, and that the time he spent with them will have a lasting positive influence on the rest of their lives.
ReplyDeleteI was a volunteer in Ecuador 2003-2004, but hearing about the loss of any fellow WT volunteer is heartbreaking. James sounded like a very unique and engaging young man. I send my deepest condolences to his family, friends, fellow Marshall Islands volunteers, and students. Regis Ahern
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