James “Jim” Alfred Lessard, 87, of Manchester, NH, passed away on November 5, 2025, after a period of declining health, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Plymouth, NH on February 24, 1938, he was the son of Alfred J. and Addie (Bilodeau) Lessard. Jim was raised in North Woodstock and graduated from Laconia High School. A proud patriot, he went on to serve his country honorably with the United States Air Force. Following his service, he continued his education in aviation mechanics at Eastcoast Aerotech.
Jim was employed with Sanders Associates for several years before beginning what would become a meaningful and memorable chapter of his life with the Manchester Police Department. For twenty years, he served as the department’s garage supervisor, affectionately known as “Garage Jim.” The nickname reflected his reliability, humor, and warm presence. If the phone rang, everyone knew how he’d answer: “Garage. Jim,” and everyone knew help was on the way.
Faith was the quiet foundation of Jim’s life. He was deeply devoted to the rosary and a longtime communicant of both Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and Saint Pius X Parish. His faith expressed itself in service to others, notably through volunteering at the Salvation Army Kid’s Café, where his kindness and light-hearted spirit were cherished.
Jim found joy in the outdoors. In earlier years, he was often found in the mountains maple sugaring, driving tractors, or logging. Later in life he enjoyed hikes with his children, instilling an appreciation for nature and hard work. He and his wife treasured their winters in Sarasota, Florida, making lifelong friends and lasting memories. A gifted mechanic, Jim could fix almost anything and was always the first to lend a hand, especially with friends’ and family members’ cars. He was known for his happy disposition, quick wit, and love of a good laugh. It is difficult to find a photo in which he isn’t smiling…or photobombing.
Above all else, Jim was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose generosity, warmth, and steady presence continue to guide those he leaves behind.
Family members include his beloved wife of sixty-one years, Mary (Bellerose) Lessard; daughter Paula-Marie Passen and her husband Jeff, of Moultonborough; sons Alfred “Al” Lessard and his wife Denise, of Bluffton, SC and Kevin Lessard and his wife Shannon, of Holderness; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, with another soon to arrive.
For more information, or to sign the online guestbook, please visit Connor-Healy Funeral Home.