Raymond J. Lavallee

Raymond J. Lavallee, 93, of Springvale, died peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Summer Commons in Sanford with his loving family by his side.

Born in Sanford on April 2, 1933, Raymond was the son of Wilfred and Adrienne (Pelletier) Lavallee. He grew up in Sanford and attended local schools. As a young man, he worked on the family farm and later went to work in his uncle’s lumber mill while still a teenager, helping to support his family during difficult times. His strong work ethic and quiet dedication to those he loved would remain defining qualities throughout his life.

Ater several years working in the mill, Raymond was drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served his country as a Military Police officer stationed on the Panama Canal for two years. Following his honorable service, he returned home and resumed working at the lumber mill, where he remained employed until retiring at the age of 65. Retirement, however, did not suit Raymond. After only two weeks away, he returned to the mill part-time and continued working there until the remarkable age of 81.

Raymond was a man who found joy in simple things and in helping others. He enjoyed woodworking, stained glass, gardening, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Gifted with his hands and generous by nature, he created countless wooden items that he lovingly gave away to friends and family or donated to children’s cancer charities and raffles at Sanford Mainers home games. He took pride not in recognition, but in being able to brighten someone else’s day.

A quiet and humble man, Raymond was truly the patriarch of his family. He cherished family gatherings and the time spent surrounded by those he loved most. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who worked tirelessly throughout his life to provide for his family. His strength, kindness, faith, and unwavering dedication left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. A devout Catholic, Raymond had long been a communicant of St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered as a wonderful example of a good and honorable man.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Rita Lavallee of Springvale; four children, Steven Lavallee and his wife Cindy of Alamogordo, New Mexico, Dave Lavallee and his wife Sue of Sanford, Ken Lavallee and his wife Sue of Sanford, and Rachel Blake and her husband Steven of Sanford; along with many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, May 13^th at St Therese of Lisieux Parish, located on North Avenue in Sanford. Interment with military honors will follow at Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Black-Heald & Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.