Joseph L. Lussier

Joseph “Joe” (also lovingly known as “Ray”) Lussier, age 96, entered eternal rest and went home to be with Jesus on November 16, 2025, following a brief illness at Colonial Health and Rehab in Plainfield, CT, where he had resided for the past two years.

Born in Chicopee, MA, to Joseph and Agnes (Tremblay) Lussier, Joe grew up in Taftville, CT, alongside his siblings Henry, Theresa, Archie, Cecile, Blanche, Lillian, and Richard—all of whom predeceased him.

In 1951, Joe married the love of his life, Dolores (Swabby), beginning a 74-year journey together. They settled in Griswold, CT, in the home Joe built, where they raised their family. He is survived by Dolores; sons Gary (Anna) Lussier of Oakdale and Bruce (Donna) Lussier of Griswold; daughter Gail Lussier Greika of Norwich; grandchildren Desiree (Joseph) Langbeen, Janella (Leo) Carroll, Kylie Greika, Nick Greika, and Stephanie Lussier; and great-granddaughters Calleigh and Camilla Carroll and Camryn Rose Greika.

Joe attended Sacred Heart School in Taftville for eight years, followed by Seminary School, NFA, and trade school. At 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War and later in the Army National Guard, retiring with the rank of Captain.

Professionally, Joe dedicated his career to Electric Boat in Groton, retiring as a Senior Designer. In retirement, he remained deeply engaged in his community. He served as president of the Griswold Senior Center, where he cooked countless meals and formed lasting friendships. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, serving multiple terms as Grand Knight, and with Dolores, led the St. Mary Travelers group, organizing bus trips and cruises. A lifelong communicant of St. Mary Church in Jewett City, Joe’s faith was central to his life.

In 2023, Joe and Dolores moved to Elmbrook Senior Community to enjoy new activities and a more comfortable lifestyle. Just weeks later, Joe suffered a serious stroke, beginning a long journey of therapy and recovery. Despite challenges, he remained determined to stay strong and active until requiring permanent care at Colonial Rehab, where he was lovingly supported by staff and friends.

Joe was cherished by all who knew him. He was kind, faithful, generous, and genuinely ready with a helping hand or thoughtful advice.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on December 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church in Jewett City, CT, followed by interment at St. Mary Cemetery on Lily Pond Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to the Veterans Coffee House of Eastern CT. Home | Veterans Center

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and relatives who surrounded Joe with love during his time in care, and to the extraordinary staff at Colonial Health and Rehab. From dining and housekeeping to the compassionate nurses and CNAs, your devotion went beyond care—you truly loved him. For that, we are forever grateful.

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