US Marine Corporal Bradley Lawrence Coy, born June of 1992, in Waukegan, Illinois, beloved son of Brandi Lynn Coy and Matthew Coy; beloved brother of Anthony and Bennett.
Growing up, Brad was recognized by all who knew him as a generous, loving, and funny young man. His second grade teacher wrote on his report card that Brad had a “heart as big as Texas” – she summed it up very nicely.
Brad knew early on that he wanted to serve his country as a United States Marine. Many close relatives including grandparents, his aunt, and his father served in the US Military. His brother, Anthony Coy, influenced by Bradley’s commitment to serving his county, was recently commissioned as a US Marine Corps Officer in January 2014. The drive to serve his country was close to his heart.
Brad signed a commitment to the United States Marine Corps while still in high school, leaving shortly after his graduation from Dos Pueblos High School, in Goleta, CA in 2010. As a Machine Gunner and Biometrics System Operator, he served his country for a 6-month tour in Afghanistan, and 6-month tour in Okinawa with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Division out of 29 Palms, CA. Brad’s numerous awards included a Combat Action Ribbon, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and more. He also qualified as an Expert Rifleman and Green Belt in martial arts. Brad was honorably discharged on June 6, 2014 then moved to Texas to attend college and begin the next phase in his life.
He is survived by his mother Brandi Lynn Coy, Vice President of the Santa Clarita Chapter of Blue Star Mothers; father Matthew Coy (US Navy); stepmother Dani Caram Coy; brothers Anthony Coy 2nd LT USMC, 24 and Bennett Coy, 13; the love of his life, Charlyna Meraviglia; grandparents Don and Cindy Pitts, Susan and Ron (deceased) Scolastico, Larry Coy, Joe and Norma (deceased) Caram, and many cousins who loved him. Brad will also be missed by his dog, Ruby, who came into his life from the Humane Society. She has a loving new home, with family that already knew and loved her.
Cpl Bradley Lawrence Coy lost his battle with PTS, October 24, 2014, in San Marcos, Texas. He was 22 years old.