Raymond F. Brooks, Jr.

Raymond F. Brooks, Jr., 89, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2017 surrounded by his family. Ray was born on June 19, 1928 in Newburyport, MA. He had a great love for Newburyport where he resided and worked his entire life.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Joan Brooks. He was predeceased by his sister Bertha and grandson Ben. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth (Betty) Webber, his children, Raymond Brooks of Manchester, NH, Cynda Barbagallo of Fremont, NH, Aaron Poulin and his wife Pam of Methuen, MA, Garrett Poulin of Kissimmee, FL. Ray also had several grandchildren, Jamie, Abigail, Emma and Gavin. 

Ray was a wonderful man with a big heart and a kind soul. He was an amazing Grandpa, Dad, loving Husband and loyal friend. He was always there to lend a hand and help others. He spent most of his life serving his country and community for over 61 years.  He joined the Merchant Marines at age 16 in 1944, during World War II, he then joined the Navy in 1946 working as a chef on the USS TUSK. In April 1950, he became a Newburyport Firefighter, which was a passion that lasted for 43 years, until 1993. He remained working for the city of Newburyport as a Superintendent of Fire Alarms for 17 years, fully retiring in 2005. Upon retirement, Ray was honored to serve as the Grand Marshall in the Newburyport Yankee Homecoming parade

Ray had many great moments as serviceman and firefighter. He was very proud and honored to serve his country and community. Ray particularly enjoyed the time spent with his wife Joan, raising his children and spending time with his grandchildren. Ray had a love for his home away from home at the house he built with family and friends in Norway, Maine. Ray could always be found on the lake fishing or enjoying the peacefulness of the lake with others. 

During his time in the service as a chef, Ray found a passion for cooking. Ray would often be found in a kitchen, whether at home or the firehouse, cooking, telling good joke and making others laugh. Ray became the unofficial firehouse chef and was featured in the Newburyport Daily News. 

Family and friends may call on Sunday, November 12, 2017 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. Parking available behind the Funeral Home. Ray’s funeral mass will be held 10:30 am at the Immaculate Conception Church, 42 Green St. Burial will be following at Oakhill Cemetery. 

In Ray’s most recent years he struggled with Alzheimer’s. The family found comfort and support in the care that was provided from Sarah’s Place.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Ray’s name to Sarah’s Place, 180 Water Street, Haverhill, MA 01835. 

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