Ronald Jules Landry Sr

Ronald Jules Landry Sr., 84, of Westbrook, Maine, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 10, 1940, in Portland, Maine, to Jules C. Landry and Irene Mae Goddard.

Ron was a devoted husband to Janice Marie Landry (Nicolai), with whom he shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. He was the proud father of two sons, Ronald J. Landry Jr. and his wife Kerry Angell of South Portland, and Chris Landry of Westbrook. He adored his grandchildren—Kelly Cook of Parsonfield, Andrew Landry of West Palm Beach, Jordan Landry of Raymond, and Julia Landry of Windham—as well as his great-grandchildren, Sophia and Gavin Cook of Parsonfield. He is also survived by his brother Dennis Landry of Buxton, ME, and Florida, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Gloria Walker, Mary Lou Dyer, Kenneth Landry, and baby sister Ellen Marie Landry.

Ron’s early years were filled with the kind of energy and determination that defined his character throughout his life. Growing up in Portland, he was known as the "controller and king of the playground" by his sister Gloria. As a young man, he was a standout athlete, excelling in baseball and football at Portland High School, where he graduated in 1959. He was a four-year varsity baseball player and earned recognition as “The Hot Corner” by the Portland Press Herald for his prowess as a third baseman. His talent led him to a tryout with the Boston Red Sox, but his sense of duty led him to enlist in the Marines and serve in the Vietnam War.

After his military service, Ron returned to Maine, where he and Janice raised their two boys. He worked as a truck driver for Fox n Ginn, following in his father’s footsteps, and later became a three-time winner of the Maine Truck Driver Rodeo—a testament to his skill and love for the road. His career in driving spanned nearly 50 years.

Family was everything to Ron, and he cherished every moment with his loved ones. Whether it was Sunday dinners with his mother-in-law, “Ma’s” meatballs, enjoying summer cookouts hosted by his sister-in-law Nikki Cox, or watching his children and grandchildren play sports, Ron’s presence was a constant source of joy. He loved being part of the action, whether it was playing horseshoes with his brothers-in-law or cheering on his beloved New England Patriots and Boston Bruins (though his enthusiasm occasionally led to a few broken TVs).

In addition to his devotion to family, Ron had a lifelong passion for sports. He umpired high school baseball and softball, refereed high school and college football, and was a dedicated supporter of local racing. His love of racing led him to work at Beech Ridge Speedway, where he spent many years attending races, often with his sons and nephew by his side.

Ron was also a proud Vietnam War veteran and volunteered his time to support fellow veterans. He and his friends regularly gathered at Falmouth McDonald’s, where they shared stories and camaraderie.

Ron’s larger-than-life personality and fierce loyalty to his family and friends will be deeply missed. His legacy is one of love, determination, and living life to the fullest.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday February 8th with visiting hours from 11:00am to 1:00pm, A Liturgy of the word at 1:00pm and immediately following a reception at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland ME.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a veterans' charity of your choice in his honor.

Rest in peace, Ron. You will always be in our hearts.