Dennis J. Normand

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Dennis James Normand, 43, on Friday, June 21, 2024, at his home in Worcester, MA. Dennis was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Born in Portland, Maine, on March 1, 1981, Dennis was the cherished son of Elizabeth "Betty Anne" (Phillips) Normand of Worcester and the late Rene Dennis Normand of Sanford, Maine. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James J. Phillips and Elizabeth A. (Crowley) Phillips of Worcester and paternal grandparents, Edgar Joseph Normand and Lillian Coutu Normand of Sanford, Maine.

Dennis is survived by his wife and best friend, Anastasia “Staci” (Moullas) Normand, of Worcester, and their 8-year-old son, James, who was his pride and joy. Neither Dennis nor Staci knew when they first met in junior high school that years later they would begin writing the chapters of their love story together.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his sisters, Tricia (Normand) Chambers and her husband, Steven, of Auburn, along with their daughters, Lillian and Grace; and Tracey (Normand) Roode and her husband, Richard, of Charlotte, NC. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, a nephew, and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory.

As a child, Dennis was affectionately nicknamed “Bumpah” by his grandfather. His spirited nature and curly-haired, chubby-cheeked antics kept everyone on their toes, always ready to catch him mid-adventure. Dennis attended Doherty High School and went on to spend many years as a dedicated manager at UPS, where he was well-liked and respected. He was known for his hard work, never giving less than 100% to any task, big or small. After his time at UPS, Dennis transitioned to roles in construction and roofing, continuing to demonstrate his strong work ethic and reliability.

Although Worcester was Dennis’s home, his heart always yearned for the shores of Old Orchard Beach. He cherished taking his son, James, to experience the same joys he knew as a child—favorite ice cream spots, Funtown USA, Camp Ellis, Pine Point, and Biddeford Pool. Dennis’s passion for fatherhood was evident in the way he shared his hobbies with James, from fishing and building Lego sets to exploring comic book stores and watching Marvel and DC movies together. Dennis's love for his family was evident in his frequent reminiscence of time spent with his grandparents, summers at the cottage in Maine, and holidays at “the big white house.”

Dennis also found joy in making other people smile and laugh, often with a funny YouTube video, meme, or a cheesy joke that made eyes roll. He was fiercely loyal, opting to focus on the good in people and allowing no judgment. His stubbornness was matched only by his huge heart.

Dennis’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. His family and friends will mourn his loss beyond measure, but they take comfort in knowing he is at peace. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of those who loved him, and his spirit will continue to inspire smiles, kindness and a bit of mischief.

A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held on Monday, July 1st, 2024, at Athy Memorial Home located at 111 Lancaster Street in Worcester between the hours of 4pm-7pm, where family and friends are invited to gather to honor and remember a man who brought joy, love and light into their lives. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, Dennis’s family encourages donations in his memory be made to Why Me & Sherry's House located at 1152 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA.