Paul Joseph Lombardi, Sr., 77, of Franklin died peacefully November 19 in the Genesis Milford Center following a long illness.
Born in Milford, March 9, 1946, the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Vignone) Lombardi, Paul was a lifelong Franklin resident.
Paul was a graduate of Franklin High School and he also graduated from St. Michael’s College in Vermont.
Following his graduation from college Paul served in the Peace Corps in Jamaica. His service in The Peace Corp was emblematic of the compassion and kindness he treated other’s with over the course of his life.
Paul had taught for over 30 years at Franklin High School, where he taught College Prep English. His passion for teaching and the written word was evident throughout his career which spanned over three decades. He possessed a warmth, dedication and a genuine willingness to help both his student’s and colleagues who not only liked him, but respected him and held him in very high regard.
Paul enjoyed cooking, reading, playing with his dog Ginger and spending time with family and friend’s especially during the holiday’s.
Paul was, above all else, a kind man. A man of integrity, strength honor, and compassion who will truly be missed.
He is survived by his children Paul J. Lombardi, Jr. of Franklin and Mary-Ellen Lombardi of Oxford.
He is also survived by his sister Mary Ellen Toscano of Rockland.
Paul is also survived by his grandchildren, Alexandra and Justin Lombardi and his great-grandchildren, Xander Gray-Lombardi and Avaiah Gray-Lombardi.
Paul is also survived by his former wife Patricia Lombardi of Franklin.
His funeral service will be held on Monday, November 27 in the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com) 131 Main Street, Franklin at 10:00a.m.
Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Franklin.
Calling hours will be on Sunday, November 26 from 1-4 p.m. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Acorn Animal Hospital, 20 Earl’s Way, Franklin 02038 or the Safe Coalition, 31 Hayward Street, Suite 2C Franklin, MA 02038.