Raymond Lyford passed away on December 22, 2016, at the age of 96. He was a caring and loving son, husband, father and grandfather. Born October 24, 1920, he was the last surviving child of Archie and Ida (Buck) Lyford. A lifelong resident of Dover-Foxcroft, he is survived by his wife of 74 years, Violet Ruby Craig. Coming of age during the great depression forged Raymond’s strong work ethic and his close family ties. He worked at many different jobs while attending school and became an alumnus and Rose Award recipient of Foxcroft Academy, class of ’39. After graduation, he began working at the woolen mill. Ray and Violet were married just a few short months before he was inducted into the Army Air Force during World War II. As a radar operator flying aboard a B-29 bomber in the Pacific, Ray faced many difficult situations, completed 35 combat missions, and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross along the way. The couple purchased their home on Pleasant Street after the war and he returned to the woolen mill as a weaver. Repairing radios for friends and neighbors at home helped support his growing family. Later, when the mills began to slow down, this side job would become a new career. Ray spent many long hours building his own successful business, Lyford’s Radio & TV Service. The fellowship he found at the Dover-Foxcroft Methodist church played an important role in Raymond’s life. He grew up as a member of the church and served the congregation in many different capacities over the years. Selflessly supporting and helping everyone within his extended family came naturally to him. He always put the needs of others over his own. He was a respected role model for his circle of family and friends. Ray did have a spark of mischief, however, hidden deep inside him, along with a keen and dry sense of humor. We’ll miss that, along with those old standards and hymns he absentmindedly whistled whenever he was working. He is deeply missed by his children, Dennis & Patti Lyford, Thomas & Phyllis Lyford, Joyce & Dick Woodard, Bruce & Paula Lyford. His grandchildren Michael Lyford, Melissa Starbird, Kathy Bloomberg, Chris Lyford, Andrea Turgeon, Mandi Cotter, Randle Woodard, Kevin Lyford, Emily Lyford and 14 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be set up and announced at a later date. In the meantime, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, friends and family make a gift donation in his name to the Dover-Foxcroft Methodist Church, PO Box 62, Dover-Foxcroft 04426. Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at www.laryfuneralhome.com.