WORCESTER__John R. Reagan,72, of Worcester, died on Thursday December 9, 2021 in his home.
He leaves his daughter, Gwen Marie Reagan; three grandchildren, Jessica Marie Weatherbee, Ashley Ann Weatherbee and John Patrick Weatherbee; a sister, Kathleen Reagan Michael; two brothers, Gary Kosciusko and his wife Josephine and Francis X. Reagan and nieces and nephews.
He was born in Manhattan, New York, a son of the late Francis J. Reagan and Rose Mary (Dzicek) Reagan. Mr. Reagan worked for Polar Beverages for several years in their Bottling Division. Before then he had been a truck driver and had worked for Best Rest Mattress Company.
From early on, one of John's lifelong passions was that of reading books, particularly historical and biographical works. He was a blue collar scholar truly. Not possessing the means for a formal higher education, his classrooms were the many various work places of Worcester. Laboring hard during the day, then retreating to his room at night, book in hand.
John was a child of the turbulent, culture-shifting, yet essential and vibrant 1960's. Often in company then with his lifelong dear friend Frank "Pasquale" Caricchio, they were part of the Worcester "hippy scene," although both would shun the label. John's shoulder-length hair, earring, cross tattoo, bare feet, and cigarette placed him in comfortable company with those who longed for the same ideals of freedom, expression, love, justice and truth. Some of his heroes being James Dean, Kerouac and Ginsberg, Malcolm X and MLK Jr, the British invasion bands (his favorite, The Animals), and the American soul, blues, rock and R&B singers (Otis Redding, Little Richard, Aretha Franklin).
A loving relationship with Julie Reynolds in the late 60's gifted him with a loving daughter Gwen, who years later gifted him with three beautiful grandchildren. He was very loving to all of them.John was a friend of Bill W., attending and speaking at many meetings over the years. But for AA, this obituary would have been written years ago.
He was predeceased by his parents, a brother Michael, Julie, and many, many dear and close friends.
So, Adieu for now John. You are now a Sky Pilot, with the prayer, "If my wings should fail me,
won't you provide me with another pair." And lastly, John would like to echo the words spoken by his mother Rose, moments before her passing last February, "Everyone should read Silent Spring by Rachel Carson."
John’s funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday December 21, 2021 in the Notre Dame Cemetery Mausoleum- Rear Chapel, 162 Webster Street. Interment will follow in the Cemetery.
HENRY – DIRSA FUNERAL SERVICE, 33 Ward Street, has care of the funeral arrangements.