Roy T. Bonaccorso

Roy T. Bonaccorso – Salem, NH

Roy T. Bonaccorso, known to family and friends as Roy, passed away on October 1, 2026, in Salem, New Hampshire, at the age of 94 after a life well lived.

Born on March 21, 1932, in Dorchester, MA, and raised in Somerville, MA, Roy lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to his family, his work, and to the many people who knew him. He was a gentle, intelligent, and kind man whose presence brought comfort and steadiness to those around him. He carried himself with quiet dignity and a warm spirit, and he will be remembered for the grace and thoughtfulness he brought to every part of his life.

Roy was the beloved husband of Sylvia (Gelt) Bonaccorso for 49 years. Their marriage was a lasting partnership built on love, respect, and shared memories. Together they created a home filled with devotion and family pride. He was a loving father to his daughters, Susan Bonaccorso (and her partner Mark Orpin), Beverly Berton, and Linda Sheehan (and her husband Robert Sheehan). He was also a proud grandfather to Benjamin Berton (and his wife Takara Lawrence), Catherine Sheehan (and her fiancé Sebastian Soto), Eva Berton (and her partner Jame O'Neill), Neil Sheehan (and his fiancée Carrissa Cho), and Ella Sheehan Rigdon (and her husband Timothy Rigdon). His family was the center of his world, and he took great joy in their accomplishments, milestones, and time spent together.

Roy pursued his education with determination and earned a master’s degree from Northeastern University, an achievement that reflected both his intellect and his commitment to learning. He built a respected career as an Electrical Engineer, spending many years at AVCO/Textron in Wilmington, MA. His work was a source of pride, and he was known for his skill, dedication, and reliability. He was also an Air Force veteran, a role he held with honor and quiet pride.

In addition to his professional life, Roy was active in the things that made life enjoyable and full. He loved decades of golf at Crystal Springs Golf Club in Haverhill, MA and Cypress Lakes Golf Club in Lakeland, FL. He appreciated all music, particularly cool jazz, and was an excellent dancing partner. A skilled bridge player, Roy enjoyed time playing at Derry Bridge Club at MGCC. He found happiness in the simple pleasure of spending time with family and friends and appreciated good company and meaningful conversation. Those who knew him will remember his calm manner, his intelligence, and the kindness he extended so naturally. He was quietly spiritual in his outlook, and his life reflected a deep sense of gratitude, humility, and connection to others.

Roy’s gentle nature touched many lives. He had a way of making others feel at ease, and his wisdom, warmth, and subtle sense of humor left lasting impressions on those who knew him best. He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for who he was. He was a man of character, compassion, and quiet strength, and his legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he influenced along the way.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roy’s name to Salemhaven Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 23 Geremonty Drive, Salem, NH 03079 or Harborside Hospice LLC, 241 Winter Street, Suite 201, Haverhill, MA 01830

,It is only with the heart that one can see rightly,
what is essential is invisible to the eye.
~Antoine de Saint Exupery

Calling hours are Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 10 -11 AM at Goundrey Dewhirst Funeral Home, 42 Main Street, Salem, NH 03079. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in Salem, NH. Please visit www.goundreydewhirstfuneral.com for directions, or to sign the online guest book.

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