John F. Foley formerly of Salem, NH, died Wednesday at his home at Windham Terrace in Windham, NH. John passed away just weeks shy of his 95th birthday.
Born on Bennington St. and raised on Tenney St. in Lawrence, John was the eldest son of Frank and Elizabeth (Sullivan) Foley. A student and altar boy at St. Mary’s School, John served Mass with Father Hurlihey. He later graduated from McIntosh Business School.
Never caring much for classroom studies, John always preferred learning by trial and error. In grammar school John’s sister Grace complained to their mother of her embarrassment when John’s artwork was displayed in her classroom labeled “What not to do!”
Eager to try any new business venture John’s early career included the dangerous work of bowling alley pin-setter, followed by solo trumpeter, playing at The Old Howard in Gloria’s All Girl Band. The latter venture ended abruptly once his mother found out.
While a chicken farmer John worked with staff at Essex Agricultural School to make eyeglasses for the hens in the hopes of keeping them from pecking one another. Visitors came by frequently to see his bespectacled flock.
Owning a used car lot, John often let homeless people sleep in the inventory during the winter months. Always asking the folks to leave early before potential customers might see them vacating the back seats.
John’s primary vocation and life-long interest was real estate development and finance. Right up to his last days he could be heard giving advice about buying a business or some other real estate venture. He was a self-taught legal rights enthusiast and remained proud of a personal letter he received from F. Lee Bailey.
John was always a prankster, creating his own Candid Camera style events. He loved a good joke. But, by far his best gift was that of storyteller. John’s wit and humor coupled with great timing made his stories a pleasure to hear.
Throughout his life John enjoyed trips to the coast, soaking up the sun and swimming. He was an avid horseracing buff, always eager to share his winnings. Later in life John became a Red Sox fan watching the games on TV with a glass of Amstel Light.
John always remained loyal to his Catholic faith, the best friend and devoted caretaker of his wife Martha, and a kind and loving father.
John is survived by his wife Martha (Henning) of Windham, NH; daughter Theresa Leppala of Methuen, MA; son John and partner Ellen Bahan of Methuen, MA; daughter Karyn and husband Donald Cormier of FL; daughter Lisa and partner Sheila Paine of Portland, ME; and daughters Wendy and husband Joe Lisbon of FL, and Nancy Callahan of Falmouth, MA.
Seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews also survive John. Of special note is John’s nephew Jim Fitton, who John proclaimed his “Best Man!” and ever loyal friend.
In passing John joins his beloved sisters Grace (Connor), Ruth (Fitton), Eileen (Reilly), Bertha (Marsden) and brother Fran.
John’s family would like to extend their sincere thanks to their wonderful neighbors, The Atterians, Kadys and Schmottlachs; Dr. Stephen Kirk for his years of thoughtful and devoted care, the truly exceptional staff at The Holy Family Hospital TCU, Windham Terrace and Rockingham Co. Hospice; and to the wonderfully kind and loving residents at Windham Terrace where John and Martha recently moved.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in John’s memory to Rockingham County Hospice or to your favorite charity.
Calling hours will be Sunday, March 8th from 2-5 PM at the Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St., Salem, NH.
A funeral mass will be celebrated Monday, March 9th at 10:30 AM at Mary Queen of Peace Church, Salem, NH. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Salem, NH.