Francis J. Heggarty's Obituary
Francis J. Heggarty, 70, passed away on August 24, 2025, from injuries sustained in an auto accident on August 10th in Seabrook, NH. He was surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Methuen, MA, Francis was the son of the late Andrew J. and Virginia Gile Heggarty. He was raised in Lawrence and spent most of his adult life in Salem, NH. A 1974 graduate of Central Catholic High School, he excelled in Track and Field. Following graduation, he worked for several paper companies in the Lawrence area. In the early 80s, he began a career with the United States Postal Service, which spanned over two decades. After his retirement, he became a loving caregiver to his mother, Virginia, who was suffering from Alzheimer's.
Prior to his death Fran loved all sports and was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He looked forward to his almost daily ride up the coast in his Corvette, ending his day with Markey's chowder or Tripoli's pizza. He cherished his Irish heritage, and every family holiday and tradition were a celebration to remember. The three most important things in Fran's life were his Faith, his family and Country. He was a loving, caring brother and cherished his nieces and nephews, and they were the light that lit up his life. He was a devout and faithful communicant of St. Joseph's Parish in Salem, NH.
Francis is predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Virginia, and his brother, John J. Heggarty. He is survived by his sister, Mary, and her husband, Mark Linehan of Glen, NH; his brother, Andrew, and his wife, Trish of Conway, NH; his niece, Erin Messer, and her husband, Jay; his nephew, Daniel Linehan, and his partner, Brian Schumann; Colleen Giuffrida and her husband, Joe; and his nephew, Michael Heggarty. He also leaves behind his great-niece, Elouise Messer; great-nephews, Jacob and Joseph Silver; and several cousins.
Francis was a kind and gentle person who found the good in everyone he met. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all whose lives he touched. The family thanks Seabrook Police, Fire Department, EMTs, and Portsmouth Regional Hospital ICU staff for caring for Fran after his accident. Their quick actions and compassion made a real difference and brought comfort during a difficult time.
Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in remembrance at a funeral mass at St. Joseph Church, 40 Main Street, Salem, NH, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 11:00AM. Kindly arrive by 10:45AM so we may come together in support. Following the service, all are welcome to join the procession to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Waverly Road, North Andover, MA, where there will be a brief graveside ceremony.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the John Breen Memorial Funeral Home Inc. 122 Amesbury St. Lawrence, MA 01841. For more information or to send an online condolence please visit our website at www.breenfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St Jude's Hospital for Children or the charity of one's choice.
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