SOUTHWICK- Donald Desmond (1926-2015) “Born in Southwick, Lived in Southwick, Died in Southwick,” that’s all he wanted to say. Donald R. Desmond lifelong resident died at the age of 88 in his home on Kline Rd. on August 27th 2015. Whether you knew him as Mr. D, Don, The Des, Bing, Pop Pop or for me Dad, no one can deny the impact Don has made over the years, in the town he loved.
He was born Oct. 19, 1926 to Etta Melaney Desmond, brother to Laurel Desmond Cray (2015) and husband to Loretta MacDonald Desmond (2001). He also leaves his daughter Susan Desmond Corey, husband Donald Corey, grandchildren Kathryn and Kristopher Corey; son Scott Desmond & Eve Crampton; and his long time companion Maryanne Desmond-Forish.
Don joined the Navy in WWII and was fortunate to get the GI bill and attend Springfield College which he credits a great deal of his success providing him an opportunity for a future in education. He married Loretta MacDonald Desmond, who followed him on this journey with a long wonderful marriage until Loretta’s death in 2001. He began work at the YMCA and then went on to have a historic teaching career in the town he loved. The friendships he fostered during those days at school were to sustain him throughout the years and those who were his close friends knew it, visiting my parent’s house enjoying a glass of wine and celebrating life. Teaching was his life. As a teacher and a person he, “He just refused to have a bad day,” and for the thousands of students who went through school with him, I know he may have made your life better, but you made his better too. He genuinely loved teaching and all his students.
He was a friend to everyone, teacher to many and father to me and Scott, and growing up influenced by his presence was truly inspiring. A great man and those who were touched by him can look back fondly and know you made a difference in his life too. Don’s dedication to the town did not stop at education as a member of the Planning Board he spent years helping shape the town’s zoning bi-laws.
The artist and singer peaked during his lengthy retirement and Don continued recording and painting leaving a legacy of artistic talent that spoke to his nature.
Some of you will remember the teacher but all will remember his zest for life, positive attitude and welcoming smile.
He left Kline Rd., to join his companion Maryanne, who helped continue to foster his love of art and music encouraged his talents and welcomed his friends in their home. Don came home to Kline Rd. to sit in peace and enjoy his grandchildren Katy and Kris, his friends and surround himself with the world he created. He shared with us his gifted journey: growing up on the lake, during the Navy, at college, teaching, his marriage and then his creative artistic later years where he continued to be an amazing man. There was so much more to Donald R. Desmond. He leaves a legacy behind in this town that is unmatched. If you were fortunate enough to have had him in your life, smile and share a toast to a life well lived and a man worth knowing.
On behalf of my entire family and Don’s extended family following his requests there are no services for a man that wanted no goodbyes, just listen to his songs in your heart and share a remembrance of a life well lived. The biology teacher in him always said, “You’re born, you live and then you die,” but few have left such an impact in our little town of Southwick. I want to thank Baystate Hospice, and all who made Don’s life so meaningful. The family has entrusted Avalon Life Celebration Center & Cremation Services, LLC 691 College Hwy., Southwick, MA with End of Life Services. Please visit Donald’s Life Tribute Page at www.avaloncelebrations.com
