Francis Paul Collard, known to family and friends as Paul, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, at Parkland Medical Center in Derry, New Hampshire, at the age of 79. A beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and United States Navy veteran, Paul lived a life defined by devotion to family and service to his country.
Born on October 26, 1946, in Norwood, Massachusetts to Robert and Theresa Collard, Paul grew up in Walpole, Massachusetts, where he graduated from Walpole High School. He was a devoted brother to Mary Ann Prescott and Robbie Collard.
Answering the call of duty, Paul proudly served in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1970, including service aboard the USS Stormes (DD-780). His time in the Navy reflected a commitment to country and honor that shaped the man he would become.
On July 29, 1973, Paul married the love of his life, Phyliss. Together they built a warm and loving home in Londonderry, New Hampshire. He was a devoted father to his two sons, Shawn and Timothy Collard.
Paul built a distinguished career as a logistics specialist at Digital Equipment Corporation, later Hewlett-Packard Corporation for over 30 years. Outside of work, he enjoyed the simple pleasures in life—the rumble of his beloved Corvette, discovering new restaurants, and, most of all, time spent with family.
He is survived by his wife Phyliss; his son Shawn and wife Susan, his son Timothy and his partner Christina Jones; his grandchildren Sydney, Amelia, and Greyson; his sister Mary Ann; and his brother Robbie and many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, April 18 from 9:30 am - 11:30 am at the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the COPD Foundation at https://copdfoundation.org