John R. Gagnon

ELIOT – John R. Gagnon, 83, of Eliot, passed away on July 12, 2024, at Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, Mass., after a brief illness.

He was born on Sept. 20, 1940, to Leo and Monica (Regan) Gagnon. John attended Biddeford schools and graduated from St. Louis High School. He continued his education at the University of Maine Orono, where he earned a master’s degree in 1962. John had a long career as an educator, teaching at Haverhill High School in Massachusetts for 30 years before serving as an Administrator for Humanities for another 10 years.

He was an avid traveler, spending five years in Japan working for the Department of Defense, and he bicycled all over Europe. John loved skiing and had a ski chalet at Mt. Abram. He was also a dedicated volunteer at the food bank in Eliot and York Hospital. John generously housed many J-1 students from various countries and had a passion for gardening. John was quite the historian, giving tours in York, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport historical buildings.

John was known for his kindness and generosity, always willing to help others.

He is survived by his sister, Sheila Gagnon of Old Orchard Beach; many devoted cousins; wonderful friends; and his beloved dog, Katie.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 19, at St. Margaret’s Church in Old Orchard Beach. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Biddeford.

Arrangements are by Hope Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 480 Elm St., Biddeford, ME 04005.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the

Footprints Food Pantry,

37 Old Post Rd.,

Kittery, ME 03904