Feb 212 min read

Honor and Remember

OEW was saddened recently when we learned of the passing of Stephen Raymond, father to Weyland Raymond, one of OEW’s most dedicated sponsors and close friends. Weyland and his wife Mandi have supported OEW for many years both financially and through in-person support.

Wayland and Mandi Thank you for your donation in memory of your father and on behalf of all of OEW please accept our heartfelt condolences on your loss.

In Waylands Words:

Stephen Elliot Raymond was born in Brookline, MA 14FEB42 to First Generation Americans that immigrated from Russia & Germany.

Enlisting in the United States Navy 12JUN62, my Father was ultimately one of the Navy Seamen that photographed and worked extensively with NASA’s ( and the Navy’s ) efforts back in the day. My father was one of the U.S. Navy Sailors that documented the recovery of the crew capsule and took the iconic photographs of Alan Shepherd’s boots having “footprints” painted around them as he stood on the recovery deck of the USS Lake Champlain, after recovering Freedom 7. He documented many, MANY other missions, as well.

From his time in the Navy, working and documenting the Space Program, capturing the missions & recoveries of the capsules, to striking out on his own to start his own business(es) when no one else thought he should or could, exemplifying what it meant to be his own man and work for himself, to opening his arms and house to an asshole young kid that was living on the street, and then taking responsibility for him at a time when the courts were against men having custody at all. He and his wife even adopted another child later in life, giving that girl love and a chance. She’s now a doctor and doing well.

Stephen Elliot Raymond passed away on Thursday, 18JAN24, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at the age of 81. He is survived by his Wife Donna, his Son Weyland (married to Mandi), his Daughter Deann (married to Garven). He was recently buried at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida.

Kiss the people you love. Be thankful for what you have. Be kind, respectful, open handed, and generous. You might not get a second chance.