1919 – 2016

NEW GLOUCESTER — Raymond Willard Sylvester, 97, of New Gloucester went to his eternal home Tuesday, Nov. 1, following a short illness, surrounded by his family at home.

He was born in Freeport on Oct. 11, 1919, to Ashley and Frances Sylvester. He was raised in Auburn, graduating from Edward Little in the Class of 1939. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted and spent 4½ years in the U.S. Army during World War II after landing on Utah Beach in Normandy, France, in June 1944 as a member of the 86th Chemical Mortar Battalion. He was in combat 315 days throughout France, Belgium and Germany, making rank of battalion sergeant major.

After the war, he married Barbara Olson and together they raised four children in the home they built in Auburn. He was employed by New England Telephone for 37 years before retiring in 1982. He and Barbara spent 22 winters together in Florida. Ray was a 32nd degree Mason and member of Kora Shrine patrol as well as a proud member of AMVETS Post No. 6. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer and gardener. He enjoyed numerous trips, especially to D-Day celebrations in Normandy, France, during which he made many special friends all over the world. He shared many happy times in recent years with special friend and companion, Virginia Stone.

He leaves his four children, RaeJean (Leslie) Bryant, Elizabeth (Tom) Campbell, Scott (Jeanne) Sylvester and Kimberly (Shane) Estes; eight grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren; his brother, Ralph Sylvester of Sebring, Fla.; and his beloved, cat Sophie; and dog, Maggie.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Barbara; his sister, Marion Sylvester; his sister- and brother-in-law, Laura and Joseph Arnold; and son-in-law, Robert Campbell Sr.

If he left only one mark on the world, it would be his love, kindness and generosity to his family and friends.

The family would like to offer their sincere thanks to Dr. Jamie Zeitlin for his amazing care and kindness to Raymond and his family.

Friends and family are invited to share their memories and offer their condolences by visiting Raymond’s online guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.