Paul George Guenette, 87, of Franklin, died peacefully at home on December 11, 2011.

Born in St. Christine, Quebec, Canada on June 12, 1924 to Telesphore and Arzelie Guenette, he was the youngest of ten children. Formerly of Smithfield, RI, Medfield, MA and having lived in various other states, he was preceded in death by his wife, Clare F. Guenette. His schooling started at St. Matthew's in Central Falls, RI and included Assumption Prep School and Assumption College in Worchester, MA. He also went on to receive his master's in French. He worked both as a teacher and administrator in the field of foreign languages. His loves were his best friend and wife of almost 60 years, Claire F. Guenette; his family, his work and traveling with Claire in an R.V. for 10 years after their retirement.

He is survived by six children, sons, Richard P. Guenette, David R. Guenette, Michael J. Guenette all of MA; daughters, Joceline M. Hayden of Franklin, NC, Elaine C. Guenette of CA and Julie R. Yamaki of PA; eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, December 13, at St. Francis Catholic Church. Father Tien Duong will officiate.

Memorial donations can be made to CareNet, 130 Bidwell Street, Franklin, NC 28734 or New Century Scholars, C/O Southwestern Community College, 447 College Drive, Sylva, NC 28779.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com