Raymond John Mailhot

WEBSTER – Raymond John Mailhot, 88, of Park Avenue, died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Margaret (Wehan) Mailhot of Webster; three daughters, Brenda Jeffries of Auburn, Kathryn DiGiandomenico and her husband Paul of Mansfield, and Patricia Barry and her husband Thomas of Oxford; a sister, Lucille Guerette of East Hartford, CT; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, Alfred Mailhot; and a sister, Lena Sylvester.

He was born in Hartford, CT, son of the late John R. and Yvonne B. (McLean) Mailhot, and raised his family in Natick before moving to Webster in 2002. He graduated from Hartford High School and Hartford Institute of Criminology. 

Ray was extremely proud of his service in the U.S. Navy. He met his wife Mary in Charleston, SC, while serving in the Navy at the same time she was serving in the U.S. Air Force. The memory of his service defined his life.

Ray was the director of finance at Plymouth Rubber Company for 29 years, retiring in 2001. Post retirement he spent several years as a docent at the Willard Clock Museum in Grafton, MA, in addition to building several ship models which are displayed at the U.S. Naval Submarine Museum in Groton, CT. He loved his time at Lake Manchaug with his wife, spending summers there for 43 years enjoying sunset cruises on their boat. Ray and Mary loved visiting museums and historical sites throughout the region. He was a prolific reader who focused on reading history and military books. He could be found with a stack of books next to him at all times. His favorite places included Ocean Beach in New London, CT, Charleston, SC, and Old Holbrook Place at Lake Manchaug.

Ray had a remarkable sense of humor. He was always positive and upbeat, and included laughter in everyday life. He was very social and could speak with anyone on any subject. His most treasured moments were spent with his family.

Services will be private. Burial will be private at West Sutton Cemetery in Sutton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516.

Paradis-Givner Funeral Home in Oxford is directing the arrangements.