Robert D. Bessette, Sr. (Bob), born February 12th, 1933, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 13th, 2025, in Summerville, SC, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and unwavering love.

Born in Pawtucket, RI, Bob's life was marked by a deep commitment to his family, his faith, and his country. He was a proud veteran of the US Navy, or as he often referred to it, "a North American Blue Jacket," where he developed a strong sense of duty and honor that he carried throughout his life.

Bob was the son of the late Leo A. Bessette, Sr. and Edith M. (Lawson) Bessette. He was the brother of the late Leo A. Bessette, Jr., and his wife Loretta and Evelyn Kaveny and her husband John.

He was a devoted husband to his wife Alice (Connelly) for 69 years, a caring father to Robert and wife Deborah of Pawtucket, RI, daughter Patricia Germani and husband Peter of Summerville, SC, daughter Donna Goudreau and husband Richard of Summerville, SC, son Michael and wife Jean of West Palm Beach, FL, and son Timothy and wife Michele of Bartlett, IL. He was also a proud grandfather to Nicholas Bessette and wife Rebecca, Kayla Imbracsio and husband Daniel, Richard Goudreau and wife Loren, Benjamin Goudreau and wife Alison, Elizabeth Mello and husband Marcus, Andrew Goudreau and wife Savanna, and Jackson Bessette. Great-grandfather to Nicholas Jr., Ella, Alice, Charles, Arthur, Theodore, Miles, Autumn, and Linus, plus countless nieces, and nephews. His family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was especially proud and thankful to be a cherished member of the Connelly family.

Bob's professional life was equally distinguished. He attended Bryant College and Johnson & Wales University where he earned an associate's degree. Along with his father Leo, brother Leo, and brother-in-law John Kaveny, he owned and operated E&L Trucking of Pawtucket for over 50 years. Bob had an adventurous spirit and delighted in exploring new places, whether on his bike or with his wife Alice touring the country in their motorhome. He lived in Seekonk, MA, and in later years, in North Palm Beach, FL.

Bob's unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was an active member of St. Mary's of Seekonk and St. Clarie's of North Palm Beach, FL, where he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. Bob found joy in a heartfelt conversation with a friend or a family gathering filled with laughter. He will be remembered for his smile that lit up a room, his wisdom, sense of fairness, and love of a good tale.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Seekonk on Saturday, July 26th at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in Seekonk Cemetery. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bob's name to the Sisters of Notre Dame c/o Sr. Leonore Coan, SNDden, Congregation Mission Office, 30 Jeffreys Neck Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, or to Gentiva Hospice Foundation , 4975 Lacross Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406.