SANFORD — Thomas “Poochie” Deshaies, 63, of Sanford, passed away early Friday morning on Oct. 5, 2018, at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough after a courageous battle with his health.
He was born in Biddeford on June 12, 1955, a son of Lucille Gerard Deshaies Legendre. Tom graduated from Thornton Academy, Class of 1974. He later went on to graduate from Pierre’s School of Cosmetology.
Earlier, Tom was employed at His & Hers Hair Saloon in Saco and later worked as a case manager and dietary aide for Crescent Place in Biddeford for many years.
Poochie had an artistic vision. His house was meticulous, everything from planting flowers outside to the interior decorating of the inside. He loved entertaining, especially for his family. Some of his most cherished times were with his grandchildren. His grandchildren fondly called him “Papoo” and his home was their playground where precious memories and traditions were enjoyed.
With Poochie’s passing, we remind ourselves that his life is to be celebrated. Although we will miss him everyday, we have created many wonderful memories that remain in our hearts forever. He will be sadly missed by many.
He was predeceased by his partner of over 40 years Leo J.O. Gagne, his mother Lucille (Gerard) Deshaies Legendre, his step-father Alberic “Savage” Legendre, his sister Lynn Deshaies Nelson and his brother Alberic “Ricky” Legendre.
He is survived by his three children Lori (Gagne) Flynn and her husband Richard, Michael Gagne and his wife Debra and Anthony Gagne, one embraced daughter Melissa Theriault and her husband Rusty, and eight grandchildren Aaron Flynn, Riley Flynn, Kayla Gagne, Noah Gagne, Sydney Gagne, Ian Theriault, Ava Theriault and Emelia Theriault. He also leaves behind his siblings Keo Deshaies, Danny Deshaies and his wife Paula, Donna Coreau and her husband Wayne, Lisa Legendre, Carlene Parker and her husband Ray, Kathy Black and her husband Mark, Samantha Newman and Rodney Legendre and his wife Denise; and many nieces and nephews.
Visiting Hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, 87 James St., Saco. A Graveside Service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Saco.
To view Poochie’s memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com
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