Leslie Raymond Gammon

WATERFORD – Leslie Raymond Gammon, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on Nov. 19, 2024, at the age of 90.

Born on May 28, 1934, in Waterford, to Raymond and Marguerite (Kenney) Gammon, Leslie was a lifelong resident of East Waterford. He attended Waterford Grammar Schools and Norway High School, majoring in Agriculture. Leslie was a proud member of the Future Farmers of America, serving as chapter president. Leslie’s passion for agriculture led him to work with his father’s poultry business. He built a three-story hen house and took immense pride in all aspects of the business. After graduating high school in 1953, he attended summer school classes at the University of Maine at Orono, earning a hatchery license. This expanded the family business to include hatching eggs and day-old chicks. Leslie assumed leadership of the farm in 1964, leading it until 1974.

Leslie’s career was diverse, with roles at Goodwin’s Dairy, Peterson Sheet Metal, and carpentry with Lloyd Grover, Daniel Construction, Cianbro, and Seward Construction. He later became a U.S. Postal Service contractor, transporting mail and doing roadside deliveries in Norway and Waterford for 16 years before retiring in 2000. 

A dedicated public servant, Leslie participated in community service for many years. He served as Civil Defense director of Waterford in the 1950s and trained with the Oxford County Sheriff’s Department, becoming a special deputy for 15 years. Leslie cherished his time in law enforcement and community service.

Leslie devoted over 40 years to serving the town of Waterford, leaving an indelible mark on the community. His commitment extended far beyond his police work, with roles on the comprehensive planning committee, planning board, and two terms as selectman and assessor. He also performed duties for the budget committee. 

Leslie married Shirley Abbot in 1956, and they had three daughters. They later divorced in 1971. He met Marianne Campbell in 1979, and they married in 1983. Their marriage was filled with love, adventure, and a deep commitment to each other. 

Leslie is survived by his beloved wife, Marianne Gammon; three daughters, Joan Hafner (Charles), Patti Toothaker (David), and Linda Lenberg; two bonus daughters and a son, Dianne Slicer (Shane), Darlene Lavoie (Joe), and Bruce Campbell (Tara); 13 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 at 1 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home, 45 Main St., South Paris. Family and friends may attend visitation on Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Elm Vale Cemetery in South Waterford in the spring.

Leslie’s wisdom and love will be deeply missed. As he once said, “Life runs out of time, no matter how old you get. It’s too short.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Stoneham Fire & Rescue, PO Box 42, Stoneham, ME 04231 or the Waterford Sno-Packers Snowmobile Club,c/o 366 Valley Rd.,

Waterford, ME 04088.