KNOX – Claude “Roy” L. Bessey Jr., 87, passed away Sunday evening, Feb. 16, 2008, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, MGMC, – Thayer Campus, Waterville. Roy was born May 20, 1920, in Knox, the son of Claude L. and Claribel (Jones) Bessey. He attended school in Knox and graduated from Freedom Academy, Freedom. Being self-employed, Roy raised Hereford cattle on the Thor-nox Farm for more than 50 years. During that time he also was a farrier, regularly shoeing more than 400 horses, about every six weeks, from Portland to Fort Kent. There was a period of time that he also drove a tractor-trailer for the poultry industry in Maine. Horses were a large part of his life, raising saddle horses and draft horses to work on the farm. Highlighting his love for horses, Roy rode as a cowboy in Kansas for a short time. Being especially fond of dogs, he was seldom seen without one or more by his side, and his love extended to all animals including domestic and wild. Roy loved to fish, hunt and spend time with friends. He enjoyed taking his Kawasaki mule, riding the fields, visiting his animals and fishing in the pond that he recently stocked with trout. He would also sit on his favorite chair on the front lawn with cats and dogs by his side. His parents predeceased him. He is survived by his sister, Shirley Bessey, cousins and special friends. Shirley wishes to thank Betty Jane and Chip Bessey, Bill and June Kirk, the staffs at the emergency room and Two Central at MGMC – Thayer Campus. A special thanks to Leigh Juskevice, a lifelong friend, who has extended herself especially at this time. Roy requested that there would be no visiting hours. A common statement of his was “I want people to remember me as I live.” A time for friends to share and renew memories of Roy will be held at Thornox Farm this summer. Arrangements are with Lawry Brothers Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 107 Main St., Fair-field. Condolences may be expressed at www.lawrybrothers.com.
CLAUDE ‘ROY’ L. BESSEY JR.
