Obituary of Raymond John Thompson

Raymond J. Thompson, 85, passed away Sunday morning, September 8, 2024. He was born on June 30, 1939, to Frederick M. Thompson and Ruth Lancaster Vigue in Howland, Maine.

Ray graduated from Howland High school in 1957 and after graduation he served in the US Army as a military police officer. He served his community in many capacities, including Fire Chief in Howland, Little League Coach and was active in church activities. Ray worked at the Howland Tannery, the East Millinocket mill, AL Williams Insurance, built 92 homes for New England Homes and was the owner of Thompson’s Hardware in W. Enfield for over 40 years.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Hanson Thompson; his children, Chris Thompson (Laurie), Michelle Kersey (Paden), Craig Thompson (Pam), stepchildren, Neallie Budway (John) and Chris Hart (Aimee); proud Grampy to 8 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; his younger sister, Dorothy “Tweet” Williams of Portland, Maine; sister-in-law, Pat and brothers-in-law, Milton and Mark. He was predeceased by his brother, Richard and sisters, Dallas, Alice, and Polly. Ray will be remembered for his sense of humor and his kindness to everyone he met.

There will be a private graveside ceremony at a later date. Messages and memories may be shared with his family on the tribute wall of kileyandfoley.com.