Paul A. Bickford

Athol- Paul A. Bickford, 73, of New Sherborn Road, died peacefully at home on Sunday afternoon, September 21, 2025 following a hard fought battle with cancer.

Born in Cambridge on February 6, 1952, he was the son of Arthur Sr. and Florence (McCusker)  Bickford and lived in Arlington before moving to Orange.

Paul was married to Linda (Chaisson) Goddard for 25 loving years until she lost her battle with cancer on May 3, 2020.

Employed by the Town of Orange for 31 years, he worked at the Highway Department, retiring as supervisor of the Transfer Station. He also dedicated over a decade of his life driving buses for E. H. Merrifield Bus Company.

He enjoyed camping and going on adventures, and his favorite place to be was his campground in Maine.

Paul appreciated Dr. David Havlin, the Winchendon Health Center, and the dedicated friends and family that provided transportation, support, and stability during his time of treatment.

He will be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. His sense of humor, witty jokes, and unwavering devotion to his family will be treasured by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Paul is survived by his loving mother, Florence Bickford of Orange; his brothers, David Bickford and his wife, Sara, of Myrtle Beach, SC,  and Kevin Bickford, of Athol; brother in law, Terry Maciejewski of Athol; nephews, Wayne Maciejewski, David Michael Bickford Jr., Craig Maciejewski, and Thomas Bickford; a niece, Shelby Bickford; and a cousin, Lynda Gutro. He also leaves step daughter, Amy Lee Goddard; a step son, Dan Michael Goddard and his wife, Melissa; and Nancy and Terry’s grandchildren, Katie, Courtney, Allie, Sara and Adam.

Paul was predeceased by his father on January 5, 1994 and by a sister, Nancy Maciejewski on January 15, 2014, and brother, Arthur W. Bickford Jr. on May 5, 2021

Calling hour on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at 11 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church, 19 Congress Street, Orange.

Interment will follow in South Cemetery, Orange.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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