Obituary of Richard A. Lessard

Richard A. Lessard, age 83, of South China, Maine, passed away Friday, March 22, 2019. He was the loving husband of Rita A. (Vermette) Lessard. Richard attended public schools in North Vassalboro graduating from Winslow High School in 1953. Following graduation, he was employed at Dunham's clothing store in Waterville. He then proudly served in the United States Navy for 35 years. With the U.S. Navy, he traveled to many countries throughout the world. Through his dedication, he rose in rank to Master Chief Petty Officer. After retiring from the Navy, he returned to his beloved Maine. Richard was a Master Woodworker and spent many hours in his workshop designing and making beautiful cabinets, bookcases and other wonderful pieces. He had a great sense of humor and was a trickster. Talking politics with him was not wise if not on his side. He also has a passion for mystery novels and studied his Bible every evening. He was predeceased by his parents, Francis G. and Pauline (Giroux) Lessard, his younger brother, Bruce Lessard, and step-son Christopher R. Bray. He is survived by his wife, Rita; children, Scott Lessard and his wife, Mary; and Richard Lessard II; step-children, Michael McPhail, Michelle McPhail and her wife, Dawn E. (Bray) Whitmire, Khris-Tina Kelley and William C. Bray and his wife Naome. He was grandfather to 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Francis T. and his wife, Laurianne, of Pembroke, MA. A memorial service will take place in the chapel at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Augusta promptly at 2pm on May 13, 2019 with Pastor Ed Hatch officiating. Richard and Rita have been longtime members of Palermo Christian Church where there will be a gathering for family and friends on Saturday, May 11 starting at 12noon.