Paul A. Bessette, 93, of Pawtucket, passed away peacefully Thursday, January 5, 2023. He was the beloved husband of the late Claire (Violette) Bessette. Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of the late Alfred and Mary (Cavanaugh) Bessette. A lifelong resident of Pawtucket, Paul was familiar to many in the area from his time in the hardware retail business starting with Bessette hardware and then spending over 25 years as the Manager of the former Drolet hardware before retiring and then continuing to work part-time for the former Landry Hardware. He was a trustee for the former Sacred Heart parish and also managed the food pantry.

He is survived by his children, Patricia Desormeaux (Chet) of Vancouver, WA, Paula Frattarelli (Frank) of Cumberland RI, David Bessette (Linda) of Attleboro, MA,  Susan Rounds (Rick) of Lincoln, RI , Deborah Nearhoof of Taunton MA, Kathleen Goddard (John) of West Warwick RI, and Carolyn Giampietro (Larry) of Cumberland RI. He also leaves his sister, Virginia Fortin, eleven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great granddaughter. He was the brother of the late Alfred, Phillip, John, William, and Gilbert Bessette.

A loving devoted family man, Paul was always on call, whether it was being awakened overnight by a sick or scared child, or one of the many requests for help with home repairs or gardening projects. He enjoyed his time with the entire Bessette clan whether it was at Charlestown Beach, holiday get togethers or just an afternoon spent sipping coffee and chatting with his brothers or friends at the local coffee shop.

Paul enjoyed gardening and loved to share his knowledge and growing tips with his family, friends and even the Little Sisters. A life long fan of the local teams, he cheered for the PC Friars, RedSox, Patriots, and Celtics. He enjoyed a good card game, telling jokes, listening to music, playing bingo and cards with his buddies at LSP/Jeanne Jugan. He loved nothing more than the joy of the Christmas season, a good lobster roll, his favorite ice cream and a cup of Del's in the summer.

The family is extremely thankful to the entire staff and dedicated volunteers at LSP/Jeanne Jugan Residence for their excellent care and dedication over the last five years.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, January 11th at 10:00 AM in Saint Joseph Church of Holy Family Parish, 195 Walcott Street, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in Mount Saint Mary Cemetery, Pawtucket.

Visiting hours are on Tuesday, January 10th from 4:00-7:00 PM in the Costigan-O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket.

In Lieu of flowers, a donation in Paul's memory to the Little Sisters of the Poor , 964 Main St. Pawtucket, RI 02860 would be greatly appreciated.