Joshua Wayne Schaalma, 43, passed away peacefully at his home in Havelock, North Carolina, on September 6, 2026, surrounded by family and care team, after a courageous battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.)
A celebration of Joshua's life will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, September 15th, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Havelock, officiated by Judson Woodard. A time of visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Family, friends, and fellow service members are invited to come together to remember Joshua, to honor his memory, share stories, and reflect on the lasting impact he had on their lives. For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed through his obituary page on Munden Funeral Home's website.
Joshua will be laid to rest, with full military honors, at 2 p.m., Friday, September 18th at Chattanooga National Cemetery, a tribute befitting his dedicated service and sacrifice.
Joshua was born on June 29, 1983 in Shelbyville, Tennessee, to the late Kathy Davenport. Joshua proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for 22 years, retiring honorably as a Master Sergeant on June 30, 2023. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines left a lasting impact on all who served with him. Beyond his military service, Joshua will be remembered for his steadfast love for his family, loyalty to his friends, and compassionate spirit. His courage and resilience in the face of ALS were a testament to his strength and character, inspiring all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie Schaalma; his son, Hunter Schaalma; his daughter, Gracelyn Schaalma; his brother, Bradley Evans; his sister, Candice Davenport; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael and Teri Richards. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Semper Fi & America's Fund, Compassionate Care for ALS, or the West Coast Drill Instructor Association, three organizations close to Joshua's heart. Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.
Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.
