The Celebration of Life of David Seth Parker Truglia

It is with profound sorrow and hearts forever changed that we announce the tragic and unexpected passing of David Seth Parker Truglia, age 40, on February 22, 2026. A beloved son, brother, and friend, David lived with courage and an unmistakable spark. He left this world far too soon, but the imprint of his life on those who loved him will endure forever.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Ileen Parker Truglia; his father, Dunewood Truglia; his beloved sister, Sarah Catherine Truglia; and a large, loving circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and those who knew him as Uncle David. He was deeply loved, and that love does not end.

Born on November 20, 1985, in Prince William County, Virginia, David spent his earliest years in Manhattan before his family settled permanently in Cutchogue on the North Fork of Long Island. His childhood was filled with beach-side memories near the Great Peconic Bay. Even as a young boy attending an international preschool near the United Nations, David displayed a fascination with languages, their histories, and its people. That early spark of curiosity never dimmed.

At Mattituck High School, David found both discipline and inspiration through the ROTC program under the guidance of Major Grigonis. That mentorship helped shape his life. He completed his final two years of high school at Fort Union Military Academy in Virginia, where his patriotism deepened. After graduation, he chose to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps.

As a Marine, Sgt. David Truglia distinguished himself through hard work. He completed Mountain Cold Weather Warfare Training, trained in Norway, and was deployed primarily to Iraq, as well as parts of Africa. David taught himself Arabic while serving overseas and was awarded a military medal in recognition of his dedication. In addition to Arabic, he spoke Spanish and Italian, and independently learned Wolof, an African language. Language, to David, was more than words — it was connection.

To those who loved him, David was the kindest person and cared deeply about the smallest details. His sister, Sarah Truglia, shared:

“Siblings are sometimes closer than anyone else. We tell each other things we never tell another soul. My brother was talented in many ways, but what always stood out to me was that no matter what we were feeling, we could always make each other laugh. The last time I saw him, I think we laughed so much we cried. He always wanted to know that I was okay. On February 14, the last time we spoke, he was just checking on me because it was Valentine’s Day. No matter our struggles, we found a laugh.”

That was David — he checked in. He made sure you were okay.

After returning home to the North Fork after his military service, David poured his energy into caring for others. He worked with teens at the Timothy Hill Children’s Ranch, set up bouncy castles for celebrations, and served as a lifeguard for Party Kids.

 David’s musical gifts at the piano and guitar brought  joy to his friends, church community, and family. He was influenced by his friend and mentor, Dr. Doug Gregg—affectionately known as “The Piano Doc”—who played a meaningful role in nurturing f music David’s love of music and his vocation.

His dear friend, Sara Raynor, remembered him as both fierce and gentle, a man who tried to do the right thing. She said:

“David helped me realize that love goes a long way, but feeling safe is forever. If you're lucky enough to have both love and security at the same time in life, even for a short time, then you can begin to understand the honor of being a devoted confidant of Sgt. David Seth Parker Truglia. Semper Fidelis.”

Rising Tide Services in the Moriches/Suffolk area was a positive influence on David’s life. As an active member of its Peer-to-Peer Mentoring group—where he was always the youngest participant—David found encouragement, support, and friendship.

David’s life was defined by service — to his country, to children, to his closest friends, to family, to his church. He made people laugh when they most needed relief. He will be remembered for his warmth to family and friends.

Though this tragic accident feels unbearable, David’s light has not been extinguished. It lives in every story about him, in every child he met, in every language he learned to better understand others, in every laugh he shared with his sister, family, and friends, and in his ongoing effort to do better and connect with others.

David, your absence is vast, and words cannot contain it. But so is the love you leave behind. Your spirit — brave, curious, and kind — will forever move through the hearts of those who are blessed to know you.

Semper Fidelis.

For memorial donations, David’s family has chosen Word of Life Youth Camp in Pottersville, New York at  email info@wol.org or Chosen People Ministries in NY, NY at info@chosenpeople.com

If you are unable to attend David's Funeral Service in person, please join the livestream at: https://www.cbcriverhead.org/