Treasured time at family camp on Pequawket Lake and outdoor adventures

SALEM, N.H. — Roy Emerson, 74, of Salem, N.H., passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

He grew up in North Reading, the son of the late Thelma and Ralph Emerson. He graduated from North Reading High School, Class of 1967, and he received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Northeastern University. He served in the U.S. Air Force.

Roy began his career as an insurance adjuster for Sentry Insurance Company. He later owned and operated ITS (Insurance Towing Service) for many years. Roy also owned and operated Emerson Landscaping. Roy was a Master Mason and was a member of the Spicket Lodge #85 in Salem, N.H., a member of the Scottish Rites, and a 32nd degree Shriner. 

Roy enjoyed his family camp on Pequawket Lake where he was president of the lake association. He started a yearly family camping weekend, which has become a tradition. Roy enjoyed being outdoors, snowmobiling, skiing, camping, hiking, golfing, boating and spending time in the White Mountains. He was described as an uncontainable nomad who always needed to know where the road led. Roy enjoyed his 4 a.m. coffee with his friends. He adored his grandchildren and loved spending time with family.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 55 years, Ellen Emerson of Salem, N.H.; his four sons, Roy Emerson, II, Gregory Emerson and his wife Alicia, and Jason Emerson and his partner Brenda Behling, all of Salem, N.H., and Mark Emerson of Atkinson, N.H.; his eight grandchildren, Benjamin, Jacob, Sydney, Cali B, Lola, Mason, Garrett and Reagan; his brother, Edward Emerson and his wife Dianne of Florida; his sisters- and brothers-in-law, Mary Healey, John Brown, Robert Brown, Debbie Murphy, Betty Cram and James Brown; 36 special nieces and nephews and many close friends.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Emerson, and his sisters-in-law, Patricia Holbrook and Kathleen LaCarbonara.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, July 31 from 3-7 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 7:15 p.m. at the Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St., Salem, N.H. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Roy’s name may be made to: Spicket Lodge, 107 Main St., Salem, NH 03079. 

To send a message of condolence to the family visit www.douglasandjohnson.com.