HEBRON – Gregory Brad Bessey, of Hebron, died on Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021 after a long battle with several health issues. Greg was born on Jan. 22, 1955, to Dorothy and Sidney Bessey of Buckfield.

The first of two children, Greg graduated as Valedictorian of his class from Buckfield High School in 1973 and went on to attend Middlebury College. He worked at Wilner Wood Products after college and then became self-employed in both music and carpentry.

Greg was most known for being an accomplished musician. He began with piano lessons at 4 years of age, and he won a TV talent show called Youth Cavalcade at 7 years of age. Through his life, he played in two bands, Back Street and DeRailed, and played for both the Buckfield and East Sumner churches for over 40 years. He also was a teacher of both piano and guitar and one of his great joys was seeing his students grow as musicians. Along with being a musician, he was also a talented carpenter, until health issues made it impossible to do this work.

Another great joy in Greg’s life was being the proud stepdad to Steve and Nick Racioppi who he helped raise with his former wife, Judy Roy, and being Grampa to Alexis, Jacob, Oliver, Annaly, (Steve’s children) and Fiorella (Nick’s daughter). His love for all of his family and dear friends was what kept him pushing through all the health issues he confronted throughout his life.

When not playing music or visiting with family and friends, Greg found great joy riding his motorcycle and hunting – referring to himself as Wyatt for his ability to hit a target from long distances.

Greg is survived by his stepsons and their wives, Anna (Steve’s wife) and Kayla (Nick’s wife); his grandchildren; sister Shanna Green and her husband Charlie; nephews Ryan Bruno and wife Ashley, Derek Bruno and wife Allison, and their children Evan, Noah, (Ryan’s) Kelsea, and Caleb (Derek’s).

A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

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