On February 20, 2019, R. Avery Hammond of Beverly MA passed away at the age of 66.  Avery was the son of Robert and Dorothy Hammond, now deceased.  A graduate of Saratoga Springs NY High School, he enjoyed the music scene and jamming his drums in Congress Park.  During the military draft he earned conscientious objector status and performed his alternate service as a hospital orderly.  He later attended Mohawk Valley Community College.  Avery moved to the North Shore area in 1986 and settled in Salem where he and his wife raised their two children.

With a passion for cars before he could walk, Avery worked in auto sales and service for a variety of dealerships in NY and MA.  Recently he worked as a transportation driver for special needs students.

Avery learned to be a handyman from his father.  They worked side by side fixing and building things.  This was especially appreciated at the family's camp on Fern Lake in the Adirondacks and at his son Drew's home in Saco. In addition to his musical and handyman talents, he had artistic talent as demonstrated by his truly unique penmanship. His musical abilities were passed on to his two children.

While raising his kids in Salem, MA, Avery was always there to cheer them on, whether they were performing in the high school's Marching Band, Winter Percussion Ensemble, WitchPitch? A Cappella, or any of the many musicals. He was an avid fan of live music and was a regular attendee at the Salem Jazz and Soul Festival.

Avery is survived by the lights of his life, son Drew Hammond, 27 of Saco, ME and and daughter Sara Hammond, 24 of Manchester NH. He also leaves his ex-wife Sue Gunby, three sisters: Ellen Bachman of Alexandria VA, Kathy Foster of Flatrock NC and Nancy Coleman, Saratoga Springs, NY as well as several nieces and a nephew.

Avery was a kind, compassionate, and quick-witted man. He will be dearly missed by those who loved him. A memorial service will be planned for later in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem. For additional information or online guestbook please visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com or call 978-744-0497.