John R. Avery, 85, of Swanzey, formerly of Milton, MA, passed away Wednesday, April 24th, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Boston, MA to the late Raymund and Marion Avery. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Northeastern University. During his prestigious career, John served as a computer programmer/analyst at the MIT Lincoln Laboratory and Director of the Medical Information Bureau Center for Medico-Actuarial Statistics. John was the managing editor of eight published Mortality/Medical Impairment Study books. After retirement, he consulted on two additional book projects.
John was a founding member of the European Train Enthusiasts group. His impressive model railroad layout, which he continued to develop throughout his life, was a great source of pride and entertainment.
John was an avid traveler, enjoying many trips throughout the United States and abroad. Rail travel in Switzerland and Germany were among his favorite experiences.
Sports were a passion for John, beginning with his participation in youth and high school. He continued that enthusiasm through coaching and attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and rooting on his beloved Boston and New England teams, particularly the Keene Swamp Bats.
John was an active church member of the Church of the Holy Spirit in Mattapan, MA, St. Michael’s in Milton, MA, and would come to find a home at the First Congregational Church of Swanzey, NH.
John was predeceased by his wife, Florence (Parsons) Avery, with whom he raised three sons.
He is survived by his wife, Judith (Madden) Avery, his three sons: Douglas, Charles, and John, five grandchildren, and extended family and friends.
Calling hours will be Saturday, April 27th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Fletcher Funeral Home, 33 Marlboro Street, Keene, NH. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 28th at the First Congregational Church, 679 Old Homestead Highway, Swanzey, NH. A graveside service will conclude services on Tuesday, April 30th at 11:00 am at Mt. View Cemetery, Old Homestead Highway, Swanzey, NH.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to be made in John R. Avery’s name to the First Congregational Church, P.O. Box 10041, Swanzey, NH 03446 (www.swanzeyucc.org).
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