Raymond Paul LaRose

Raymond Paul LaRose passed peacefully in his sleep on October 18, 2025 at Rose Monahan Hospice after a long fight with cancer. Ida M. (neé Hedges) LaRose, his wife of 61 years, was by his side. Born June 21, 1940 in Worcester, MA, Ray was a life-long learner who attended St Joseph's, Holy Name, Holy Cross College, Assumption College, Worcester State, and Sorbonne Université in Paris, France. From 1964 to 1967, Ray served in the U.S. Army in West Berlin, Germany as an E5 interpreting for a French major. Back home in Massachusetts, Ray taught French and social studies in Holden for 39 years. Upon retiring, Ray committed to teaching for 16 more years at Worcester Academy, where he taught French, History, and English to students from all over the world. By the time he officially retired at the age of 80, Ray had taught three generations of students—many of whom he remembered and enjoyed speaking with over the years.
Ray was a resident of Rutland, MA for 53 years and a member of St. Patrick's Church for over 30 years. He enjoyed vacationing with Ida and his family in Quebec City, Maine, and Cape Cod. He was fluent in French, deeply interested in world history, and passionate about taking care of his property. A lover of plants and flowers, Ray worked for many summers as a professional landscaper with his cousin, Paul Banks.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond D. & Anora LaRose, and his sister Noreen T. Lessard. He is survived by his children, André-Louis LaRose & Monique LaRose of Rutland; Paris-Renée LaRose of Jefferson; his grandchildren, Calvin & Noelle LaRose, Cole LaRose, Wyatt LaRose, Loch Baillie, Grey Baillie; his great-grandson, Louis LaRose; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.