John R. Duxbury 72, of Methuen, MA, formerly of Derry, NH, passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2010 at Lawrence General Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife and family. Mr. Duxbury was born in Lawrence, the son of Maden and Hazel(Cairns) Duxbury. He was educated in the Lawrence schools. A retired firefighter, Mr. Duxbury began his career in No. Andover where he was instrumental in establishing the union and served as its first president. Later Mr. Duxbury transferred to the Lawrence Fire Department where he remained until his retirement. An avid hunter and fisherman, Mr. Duxbury, his sons, and co-workers spent many enjoyable hours in these pursuits.
Mr. Duxbury is survived by his wife, Noreen (Hatch) Duxbury, children; Cindy-Lou Amey and husband John of NH, John R. Duxbury II. and wife Lisa of MA, Kimberly Cole and husband Donald of AR, Patrick Duxbury of VT, Bob Smith and wife Stefanie of NH, Mike Smith and wife Debbie of MA, Tim Smith of FL, and former daughter-in-law Deb Duxbury of MA. He also had 25 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, James Duxbury and sister, Ruth (Duxbury) Monan.
In fulfillment of Mr. Duxbury's final wishes there will be no calling hours or funeral services. Memorial donations may be made to the M.S.P.C.A. in Methuen or the American Cancer Society. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Derry, NH is handling the arrangements.