John Thomas Babine, 63, of Reading, died at home surrounded by his family on March 23, 2014 after a long, hard fight with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Linda S. (Nemerowski) Babine. Devoted father of Jennifer Peznola and her husband Bob of Methuen, Erica Hurley and her husband Jeff of San Diego, CA, Melissa Richards and her husband Mark of Andover, Michael Walter and his wife Cindy of Easton. Cherished son of Norma (Talbot) Freije of Newburyport and the late Thomas Babine of Amesbury. He was the loving grandfather of Jack, Giovanna, Tyler, Shane, Max, Stella, Wes, Winnie, Alexandra, Ben and Leo. He is also survived by his three sisters, brother and brothers-in-law as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

John received his BA at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and then earned his Master's Degree in Education from Salem State College. He taught 5 ^th grade in Reading for 35 years and was especially enthusiastic about teaching math and science.

John had many hobbies and passions, first of which was spending time with his family and spoiling his grandchildren. One of John's favorite places to spend his time was Hampton Beach, and every year, he and his wife, Linda, hosted a week at the beach for the entire family of 21.

He was also an avid football fan who loved the Patriots. He held season tickets and was known for his annual Super Bowl parties.

John's biggest hero was Beatle's icon, John Lennon. Like Lennon, he believed that one can accomplish more in life with love and peace than with hate and prejudice. It's a philosophy by which he lived his life and raised his children.

Funeral from the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading, Wednesday, March 26 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Agnes Church 186 Woburn St., Reading, at 10:30 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Funeral home visiting hours are Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. Burial is private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in John's memory to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St. Framingham, MA 01701. For directions and on line guest book visit johnbdouglassfuneralhome.com