Drew Tursi — a 2005 Staples graduate who was on the fast track in his cooking career in Charleston, South Carolina — died in his sleep Saturday night. He was 30 years old.
His death stunned the tight-knit restaurant community in his adopted home. On Friday night La Farfalle — where Tursi served as sous chef — participated in the 1st-ever Charleston Food & Wine Festival. There was an opening night party, and a visit from Daniel Boulud.
Drew Tursi
The La Farfalle website said that Tursi had worked in restaurants in Pawleys Island and Charleston, before moving to New York and the 1-Michelin star A Voce.
After returning south he satisfied a dream: traveling to Italy. He spent a year there, working half the time at the 2-Michelin star Taverna Estia in Naples. He honed his craft, and immersed himself in Italian language and culture. He returned to Charleston in January
The La Farfalle site added that Tursi loved “being on the boat, Thanksgiving dinner, and watching his brother (Brad) play in his band, Old Dominion.
Le Farfalle will be closed on Thursday (March 9) to host a celebration of Tursi’s life with his friends and family, immediately following a memorial service at Seacoast Church in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina at 10 a.m.
Very sad. My deepest condolences…
So very sorry … I remember him playing on the sidelines while Brad played soccer. Diane Van beever
My thoughts and prayers are with the Tursi family during this difficult time. I spent a brief summer with Drew about ten years ago. He was an awesome guy.
Tursi’s little brother.
Sent from my iPhone
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Drew was full of life with an infectious laugh that could fill the room with joy. He will truly be missed, but never forgotten. Love you like a brother may you Rest In Peace Drewski!!
My deepest sympathies to the Tursi family. May our God in heaven comfort you during this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
May you find comfort in his memories.
Your friends at
Norwalk Hospital
My deepest sympathy to KAREN and family.
May God given you strength through this horrific
tragedy.
With great compassion for all.
GERI SCARPETTI (Norwalk Hospital Radiology Dept)
Drew was a great guy who made life look effortless. He always knew how to enjoy life and was one of the most loved people I’ve ever seen go through Staples High school.
He was also a leader of the football team. The 2004 state championship team was a group of brothers who’s bond will never be broken. Drew was a true leader for us, whether it was motivating the younger kids in summer sprints, or making everyone laugh in the locker room.
This is so crazy and I’m still trying to process it, but I had to write something. As I sit in my office tears are flowing down my cheeks as my head replays memories of the good times. To all the class of 2005 bros, you have a guardian angel now. I know Drew is going to be watching down on you all from heaven.
Although I never met drew, he must have been a wonderful person, what a smile! God has called him home….Sending prayers and condolences from Oregon to his friends , family and co worker family. May you tell stories of good times shared and may your love comfort and keep you. God bless!