It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Denis Fairbrother, 83, of Irasburg, Vermont, who departed this life peacefully on April 10, 2025.

Raymond was born in Barton, Vermont, on May 12, 1941, the second of four sons to Pliny and Theresa (Paquette) Fairbrother. He attended St. Paul's Graded School and graduated from Barton Academy with the Class of 1959. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he earned the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged in 1967.

Upon returning home, Raymond eagerly embraced family life with his beloved wife, Peggy (Provencher), whom he married on October 2, 1965. Together, they built a loving home and shared nearly six decades of marriage.

Raymond held various positions throughout his career, including grocery manager and shift supervisor, ultimately retiring from Ethan Allen, where he served as the supervisor of the router section in the Finish Mill. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his team.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ray found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved swimming with his daughters at Crystal Lake, tossing a baseball in the backyard with his son, and participating in bowling and softball leagues. He especially cherished any family get-togethers and was always telling "Dad" jokes. He enjoyed fishing with family, coaching T-ball and Little League, and was always present to support and guide his children.

In his later years, Ray found solace in quiet pastimes—birdwatching, reading, and both doing and solving puzzles, always keeping his mind sharp.

Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Peggy Fairbrother, and their children: Sandra Hommel, Lisa (James) Groff, Tara Fairbrother, and Michael (Meagan) Fairbrother. He was a proud "Papa" to his grandchildren: Dr. Richard "RJ" Hommel, Taryn Fairbrother, Madison Groff, Austin Morrow, and Lavender and Olive Fairbrother. In 2024, he was joyfully blessed with the arrival of his first great-grandchild, Chandler Raymond Edward Smith, whose presence brought radiant happiness to Ray in his final year.

He is also survived by his brother, Keith Fairbrother, and Keith's wife, Dru Dowdy.

Raymond was predeceased by his parents, Pliny and Theresa, his stepmother Pauline Fairbrother, his brothers Ernest and Steve, and grandchildren Brianna and Michael Willis.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Pleasant View Cemetery in Orleans, Vermont, with full military honors.

Online condolences may be shared at www.curtis-britch.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Raymond's memory may be made to Wounded Warriors, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home and Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.