
Jason W. Desormeau
September 29, 1973 ~ October 17, 2026
Resided in: Sanford, Maine
In Loving Memory of Jason Desormeau
Jason Desormeau, 53, of Sanford, Maine, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Though his time with us was far too short, Jason leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a legacy of kindness, and a place in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Born on September 29, 1973, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Jason grew up in Lincoln, where he attended local schools and graduated from Lincoln High School. He went on to pursue his love of music at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham, earning his Bachelor of Music degree.
Music was one of Jason’s greatest passions. A talented guitarist, he found joy and expression through playing and sharing his gift with others. As the former lead guitarist of the local Maine band Sly-Chi, Jason brought his talent, creativity, and love of music to those around him. Music was more than something he played; it was a part of who he was.
Jason worked as an installation and programming technician for Griffon Security Technologies, located in Kennebunk, Maine. He was a naturally curious and resourceful person who never shied away from learning something new. Largely self-taught, he successfully navigated five different careers throughout his life, demonstrating an impressive ability to adapt, grow, and find his own path. Independent and determined, Jason approached life with a quiet confidence and a willingness to take on whatever challenges came his way.
Beyond his work and music, Jason had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the natural world. He believed in caring for and protecting the environment, finding peace and beauty in nature and recognizing the importance of preserving it for generations to come.
Above all, Jason will be remembered for his big, bright smile, his gentle heart, and the kindness he so freely gave to others. He was loving, sweet, thoughtful, and considerate, always willing to lend a helping hand whenever someone needed him. He was the kind of person who cared deeply, supported his friends, and made the people in his life feel valued and appreciated. His presence brought warmth to those around him, and his genuine, caring nature left a lasting impression.
Jason was also a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He cherished his family and held a special place in the lives of his nieces and nephews, who were fortunate to have him as their uncle. To his friends, he was a loyal and supportive presence; to those closest to him, he was someone whose kindness and love could never be taken for granted.
It is difficult to put into words the heartbreak of losing Jason at just 53 years old. His passing leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled, but the love he shared, the laughter he brought, the music he played, and the memories he created will remain with those who knew him. Though he is no longer here in person, a part of him will live on in every life he touched, every song that brings him to mind, and every moment spent appreciating the natural beauty he loved so much. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Jason was recently predeceased by his stepmother, Kathleen Desormeau.
Jason is survived by his loving partner, Melissa Chapman, of Sanford, ME; his mother, Rita Life, of Cumberland, RI; and his father, Wilfred Desormeau, of Johnston, RI; his sister Jennifer Chase and her husband, Christopher, of Assonet, MA and his other siblings, Anita DeLima and her husband, Michael, of Johnston, RI; Christine Lovering and her husband, Brian, of New Gloucester, ME; and Brandon Spellman and his wife, Ashley, of Johnston, RI.
He leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews, Nicholas DeLima, Kaitlyn Whiteley, Gabriel Burns, and Roselyn and Chloe Spellman, as well as his nephew and godson, Eric Burns, and his wife, Chelsi. He also leaves behind many dear friends whose lives were made better by knowing him and who will forever cherish his memory.
Though saying goodbye to Jason is incredibly painful, those who knew and loved him can take comfort in knowing that his life mattered, his kindness made a difference, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of so many.
A celebration of Jason’s life will be held at a later date, when family and friends will have the opportunity to gather, share memories, and honor the life of a man who meant so much to so many.
My sympathies to the family at this time! I did not know him that well but he was at my house a year ago to celebrate my nieces mother‘s birthday, and I enjoyed our visit very much so! I have seen the a video of him band and he was phenomenal musicianand a very sweet person with a big beautiful smile! Keep that in your memories ❤️
Much love, Diane and Gordon
Jason, gosh it’s been a long time. When I received word this week I was in a spot I couldn’t process the news. When I finally had a moment to myself later that day, I reminisced on the oh so many great times we had back in the 90’s and 00’s. I noticed I wasn’t crying but I was smiling. Because gosh it’s hard to look at your infectious smile and do anything but smile in return. Rest easy friend. My thoughts to your family and friends.
If one thing I want to leave here is the msg that there is a loving God who is not part of an organized religion but who loved us and more than anything knows our hearts . I know he loved Jason heart. My prayers to the family and friends. My time with SLY CHI was memorable and playing with him was always a pleasure and honor.
You were truly the BEST brother that a sister could ever have. I am sure that your newfound audience is already fully enjoying your big bright smile, your corny jokes, and your incredible guitar skills – just wish that you could have kept doing all of it down here for MUCH longer. My world is shattered. I loved you so darn much- and always will. My world will NEVER be the same without you in it. May you rest in eternal peace and find lasting comfort, my dear brother. You will forever be in my heart. 💔😢
Dear Rita and Jenn,
I am so sorry for your loss. Jason truly was a bright light. I’ll always remember his lightheartedness and his beautiful smile! You have our sincerest condolences.
Kind regards,
Kristen Boie and family
Please take good care of yourselves as you go through this rest of your life journey.
My only smile comes from believing he and Brian are playing their music together and they are smiling back.