LEWISTON — A Mass of Christian burial honoring the life of Paul A. Samson was celebrated by the Rev. Marc Caron Saturday, May 3, at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul of the Prince of Peace Parish.

Before arriving at Mass, the funeral procession to church was led by by the Lewiston Police Department and enroute paused in front of Paul’s residence on Webster Street on the way to church as a tribute to Paul.

At the beginning of Mass, Paul’s two sons, Marc and Eric, draped their father’s casket with a white burial pall, signifying their father’s baptism into a new spiritual life with God. Sister Claire Descoteaux, Paul’s cousin, proclaimed the First Reading. The Offertory Gifts were brought to the altar by Paul’s grandchildren, Connor, Calli, Madison and Camren. Words of Remembrance, written by Paul’s sons, were read by Rob Johnson on behalf of the family.

Delegations in attendance at Mass were from both the City of Lewiston and Androscoggin County Governments, as well as the Knights of Columbus.

Following Mass, the funeral procession to St. Peter’s Cemetery was led by the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Department. Before committal, prayers were recited by the Rev. Caron at the cemetery. The song, “My Sons” was played as a special request from Paul to be played at his service as a tribute to his sons.

Following committal prayers, the United States Marine Corps Honor Detail played taps and and presented our country’s flag to Paul’s wife, Patience, as well as a flag to each of Paul’s sons, Eric and Marc, in recognition of Paul’s service to his country during the Vietnam conflict.

The Knights of Columbus who served as pallbearers were Lionel Guay, Richard Mercier, Leo Baillargeron and Donald Pelletier. Also serving as bearers were Marc and Eric Samson.

Arrangements by Pinette Dillingham & Lynch Funeral Home, Lewiston.