Raleigh Folsom Obituary (1927 - 2024)

Raleigh L. Folsom, 97, of Springvale, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, December 23, 2024. Born on November 18, 1927, to Lysle and Mary (Rhodes) Folsom in Springvale, Raleigh spent his formative years in his hometown, attending local schools before continuing his education at Gorham State Teachers College. Raleigh proudly served in the U.S. Army. Raleigh met and fell in love with Rhoda Bailey, while both were working in Strong, ME and together they shared 60 years of marriage. Early in their marriage, on their first anniversary, Raleigh purchased a property on Mousam Lake and personally built a summer cottage, lovingly named "Anniversary Lodge." It was a cherished retreat where they spent every summer. For much of his career, Raleigh taught woodworking and drafting at East Windsor High School in East Windsor, Connecticut. He also took great pride in his role as a driver's education teacher, where he taught thousands of students. Despite his commitments in Connecticut, Raleigh’s heart always remained in Maine, where he and Rhoda returned to live full-time upon his retirement. Raleigh’s contributions extended beyond his career. A dedicated volunteer, he served at the local soup kitchen for 25 years, offering his time and kindness to those in need. His many talents were showcased in his hobbies. He was a deer hunter, beekeeper, an apple grower, (experimenting with grafting several varieties on one tree). He made wine and enjoyed cooking, as well. His creativity was boundless; he built a sailboat, crafted countless pieces of furniture for his family, and was most assuredly a problem solver. Always keeping up on his chores, Raleigh could often be found outdoors, raking, shoveling, or mowing. He could also be found walking several miles a couple of times a day. He was driven, clever, had a dry sense of humor and was a very independent man. Being a sports fan, Raleigh cheered for the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He also enjoyed playing card games, especially cribbage, with his friends. His love of dogs was well known as well; he always had a treat in his pocket for one he might meet. Though it is impossible to capture such a rich and full life in words, Raleigh will always be remembered for his devotion and care for his beloved wife, Rhoda, throughout their 60 years together. It is also known that he loved and adored his granddaughters and so pleased to see them grow up. Raleigh leaves behind an enduring legacy of commitment, lifelong learning, hard work, and masterful craftsmanship. Raleigh is predeceased by his beloved wife, Rhoda, and his parents, Lysle and Mary, and a sister Barbara Boyle. Survivors include his children, Mark Folsom and his wife Shelly of Somers, CT, MaryAnn Ratteree of Springvale, grandchildren Madeline, Meredith and Mackenzie Folsom, Alyssa Ratteree and her partner Justin Freeman of Springvale, Megan Ferrara and her wife Daniela, of Framingham, MA, Kevin LeBrecque and his wife Leo of CT, Lauren Mazzoli of Somers, CT, and great grandchildren, Enzo and Mica. A burial with military honors will be held at the Southern Maine Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in the spring of 2025. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation in Raleigh's name to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate.