Julia M (Conchado) Lessard, 92, of Melrose and formerly of Peabody, died Wednesday May 3 at her home surrounded by her family. She was the devoted wife of the late George R “Smokey” Lessard.

Born in Peabody, she was the daughter of the late Manuel Condamio and Jesusa “Jessie” (Gonzales) Conchado Dragon. She was raised and educated in Peabody and was a graduate of Peabody High School, class of 1948.

She was known to her friends as Julie. Julie worked in the Peabody School System as a cafeteria worker for many years until moving to New Port Richey, Florida with her husband in 1981. As a widow she wanted to be near family and moved to Fort Worth, Texas. In Texas she worked in the medical field as a clerk and transcriber of medical records for many years before retiring.

Julie was a Girl Scout Leader for many years, a member of the Red Hat Society and upon her retirement, she enjoyed traveling extensively in the United States and Internationally. She also enjoyed the beach and playing mahjong with her friends. Her favorite activity was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Julia is survived by her four daughters, Brenda A. Lessard and her husband Peter Kaepplinger of North Reading, MA, Donna M. Lessard of Melrose, MA, Mary E. Lessard and her husband Thomas Elam of Southlake, TX, and Robin E. Cain and her husband Michael of Melrose, MA. Her beloved six grandchildren, Christopher Elam, Craig Elam, Daniel Kaepplinger, Kathleen Kaepplinger, Jennifer Cain, and Amanda Cain.

Her funeral will be held on Monday at 9:00 AM at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St, Peabody, followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at St. John's Church, Peabody to which relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Sunday from 2:00 until 5:00 PM. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Salem.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.