Robert K. Hallisey

Hallisey’s numerous contributions to the Old Saybrook community, town boards and commissions include the establishment of Hallisey’s Pharmacy on Main St. which opened in 1963 and continued successfully for 40 years. He served as president of the Main Street Business Association when the Saybrook Stroll was started, was president of the Old Saybrook High School Music Boosters and the American Field Service, was a member of the Ram Boosters and Board of Education, was secretary of the Planning Commission, was a member of the Old Saybrook Nursing Board, and the Westbrook Elks including serving as Grand Exalted Ruler. Hallisey was the recipient of the 2006 John Baldoni Spirit of Saybrook Award. He loved being a pharmacist, loved his drug store, and served his community tirelessly, filling and delivering prescriptions whenever anyone needed him, often around the clock. He was also a member of St. John Church where he was an usher and daily communicant.

Robert Hallisey is survived by his wife Maureen; children Gretchen Bushnell and husband Steven, of Old Saybrook, Clare Dohna and husband Eric, of Vashon Island, WA, Mary Bacon and husband Wells of Somesville, Me, Anne Dohna of Brooklyn, NY, Peter Dohna of East Haddam, Robert Hallisey Jr. and wife Suzanne of Duxbury, MA, Kenneth Hallisey and companion Peter Koshivos of Hyde Park, MA, and Kris Hallisey of Newington. Hallisey was proudly “Grandfather” to his 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Hallisey and was predeceased by his wife, Anna Mae Sheehan, and brothers Michael and Edward.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday July 2nd from 4-7pm at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. The funeral procession will assemble on Friday July 3rd at 10am at the funeral home and will proceed to a 11am Mass of Christian Burial in St. John Church, Main St., Old Saybrook. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Old Saybrook. Donations in Hallisey’s name can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or doners/stjude.org