Raymond 'Ray' Deschenes

Raymond J. Deschenes, 65, of Rindge, died Thursday, November 27, 2008 at his home after a long, tenacious battle with cancer. He was born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts on October 3, 1943, son of the late Gilbert and Angie (Belanger) Deschenes.

Ray was a Jaffrey businessman for more than 30 years. In 1976 he opened DD Auto Body with his brother Andre. A few years later, he opened his own company at the current Route 202 location, where it eventually evolved into Deschenes Auto RV Center.


An adaptable entrepreneur with an eye for opportunity, Ray also operated other Jaffrey businesses over the past three decades, including The Mop Shop hair salon, JART Construction and Countryside Limousine service.

Ray held a lifelong love of auto racing and was the proud owner of Deschenes Racing Team which he formed in 1998. Together, with his son behind the wheel, they competed throughout New England in the Mini-cup and Late Model series. This hobby allowed him to enjoy the racing circuit with family and friends. He was proud of the endeavor and relished the thrill of wins, the drama of losses, and the terrific stories they all provided.

In his free time, he enjoyed camping. He had a soft spot for children and dogs, and was especially happy when playing with his grandchildren and when surrounded by his family. His spirit, humor and character will be deeply missed.

He leaves behind his loving wife and partner of 28 years, Terri Deschenes. He is also survived by two daughters and a son; Melissa Deschenes of Milford, NH,Renee Davisand Jamien Deschenes, bothof Jaffrey, NH; his three grandchildren, Jolie Gonthier of Milford, NHand Aida and Samson Davis, both of Jaffrey, NH;his sister Irene Rodier of Baldwinville, MA, and two brothers, Gilbert Deschenes of Milford, NHand Andre Deschenes of Jaffrey, NH; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

He was predeceased by three brothers; Wilfred, Red and Nel Deschenes; and a sister; Lucy Lord.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Hospice at HCS, PO Box 496, Peterborough, NH 03458 or to Racing Against Cancer(tm), PO Box 1092, Westbrook, CT 06498

Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery on Goddard Road in Rindge.

Family and friends are warmly invited to calling hours on Monday, December 1, 2008 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Cournoyer Funeral Home Cremation Center, 33 River Street (Route 202), Jaffrey, NH.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at 11:00 AM in Saint Patrick Church, 87 Main Street, Jaffrey.