Raymond L. Tessier

FLORENCE - Raymond L. Tessier, 89, passed away Sunday, May 29, 2016, at home.

Raymond was born in Northampton, the oldest of seven children of the late Raymond E. and Anna (Fleury) Tessier. Raymond attended local schools and graduated Northampton High School class of 1944. Raymond served in the U.S. Army in Germany at the end of World War II. He was very proud of his service in the Army and often spoke of his interest in all branches of the military. He had a photographic memory, loved to share his knowledge, and talk with friends and family.

Among Raymond's greatest joys were reading every day. He loved science fiction, espionage adventures and keeping up with technology. He was a sports car enthusiast, and enjoyed Sunday drives with his family. He obtained his pilots license and often spoke of flying with good friends. For many years he enjoyed building and flying model airplanes. He was a participant of a local model airplane flying club. His genuine smile upon greeting you, his dry sense of humor and funny little laughs, will be missed by all who had the honor and privilege of loving and knowing him.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Anne Rogers Tessier, sons Gerald and his wife Sandra of South Carolina, and Andrew of Los Angeles, California, and daughter Mary (Tessier) LeMoine and her husband Alan of Easthampton. He also leaves his brother Allan and Polly Tessier of Pensacola, Florida, and five sisters, Frances and Elliott LaMontagne of Kennebunkport, Maine, Margaret and Aubrey Edinburgh of Austin, Texas, Julia Saner of Easthampton, Dorothy Tessier of Amesbury, and Cynthia Tessier of Florence. He leaves six grandchildren, Genalyn, Christina, Michelle, Stephanie, Jennelle and Jeremy and step-grandchildren Nicholas and Brandon. There are seven great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews, all whom he cherished dearly.

After several months of recent health issues, Raymond was thrilled to have recuperated, and very happy to walk into to his home where he returned May 4. His family would like to sincerely thank all the wonderful people who cared for him in the last several months. With special thanks to his sister Cynthia and his niece Linda Weit.

Raymond's funeral will be held Saturday, June 4, at 10 a.m. with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at Annunciation Church, 82 Beacon St., Florence. Burial with military honors will be at St. Mary's Cemetery. Calling hours are Friday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ahearn Funeral Home, 783 Bridge Road, Northampton.

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