John Richard Heath

Mr. John R. Heath, 86 years of age of Silver Lake, NH formerly of Swampscott, MA died on March 4, 2026 peacefully surrounded by his devoted family. He was the husband of his loving wife Lila (McMullen) Heath who predeceased him on their 64th wedding anniversary on June 25, 2025.

Born in Lynn, MA raised in Swampscott where he graduated from Swampscott High School Class of 1957. Upon graduation Mr. Heath enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

Mr. Heath is predeceased by his father Edward Heath II, mother Madeline (Mara) Heath, brother Edward Heath III and his sister Dorothy (Heath) Cunningham.

Mr. Heath spent his early years working for his dad in the family owned and operated E.H. Heath Fruit & Produce in Lynn, MA. Upon Mr. Heath’s honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, he sought to become a machinist. During the ensuing years he became skilled and educated in the trade with various machine shops holding positions as a production control manager responsible for scheduling and production of screw machine parts. Mr. Heath excelled in scheduling of screw machine departments, secondary departments, soldering departments, assembly departments, and inventory control through the cyclical demand of movements. Mr. Heath had an exceptional memory for details. Mr. Heath’s final employment was at Delta electronics in Beverly, MA.

John married Lila on June 25, 1961. Together they raised a family and set out on their own. Mr. Heath opened his first machine shop producing electronic coaxial connectors. G + L Machine which expanded in size and locations in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. Business names changed to Madison Machine and eventually High Street Metals of Silver Lake NH.  

Mr. Heath is survived by his children: Rick Heath of Silver Lake, NH, Robert Heath of Silver Lake, NH and Suzanne (Heath) Borsody of Conway, NH. 9 grandchildren: Pamela, Joshuah, Emily, Joseph, Adam, Amanda, Thomas, Mariah, and Brandon. 11 great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of love, laughter, and family. In addition to Mr. Heath’s immediate family, John held a special place in his heart for his dearest friend for more than 30 years, Annie Hordwell of Portsmouth, NH. Her children and grandchildren who have cared for John as one of their own.

Mr. Heath was known to nearly everyone and those who met him by his quick wit, unmistakable sense of humor and nickname “bacon”. He left a lasting impression on everyone. Mr. Heath will be remembered for the stories he shared, and the advice he dispensed. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Service details: Mr. & Mrs. Heath will have a Memorial Mass at The Madison Church on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. followed by a Graveside Service at 12:00 p.m. at the Gilman Cemetery on E. Madison Road, Madison NH. The family welcomes you to join them for a reception at 1:00 p.m. at The Madison Church. 

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