Priscilla G. “Penny” (Sykes) Deschene, 74, of Pelham, NH, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 after struggling with a prolonged illness. She was surrounded by her devoted husband, family and loved ones. Born on January 15, 1951, in Lawrence, MA, Penny was the beloved daughter of the late Robert and Marcelle (Martin) Sykes. A lifelong resident of the area, she was deeply rooted in her community and family. Penny had a creative spirit and a love for the arts. She enjoyed knitting, ceramics, and a wide variety of crafts. With the joy of knitting Penny and her sister Carole grew their own business “Kin-Knits” inspiring other knitting and crafting enthusiasts. A lifelong reader with a fondness for puzzles, she was always ready for a challenge. Her greatest joy came from the time she spent with her family at home and at Moose Hillock Campground. This was the time she cherished above all else. Many will remember Penny for her incredible warmth and hospitality. She had a unique ability to welcome anyone into her home and make them feel like part of the family. Though she stayed close to home, she lived within a wide and loving community, touching countless lives with her kindness and generosity. In addition to her parents, Penny was predeceased by her sister, Brenda Murphy. She is survived by her devoted husband of 55 years, Robert Deschene of Pelham, NH, and their five children. Danielle Paquette and her husband Scott of Pelham, NH; Beth Ausevich and her husband Michael of Pelham, NH; Eric Deschene and his wife Jeanne of East Haddam, CT; Marc Deschene of Pelham, NH and Robert Deschene of Pelham, NH. She is also survived by her siblings, her twin sister Patricia Hanson of North Reading, MA; Carole Starner and her husband Paul of Salem, NH and Robert Sykes and his wife Mary Addis of Mount Vernon, OH. Penny was a proud and loving grandmother to 11 grandchildren: Zachary, Benjamin, Emily and her fiance’ James Inserra, Scott, Henry, Hannah, Ryan, Shannon, David, Jonathan, and Lillian — and one great-grandson, Nathan. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visiting hours on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Edgar J. Racicot Inc. Funeral Home, 1400 Broadway Rd., Dracut, MA. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Church, Pelham, NH. Burial will follow at Gibson Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.racicotfuneralhome.com.