René Proulx

René Proulx, 67, of S. Hadley, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Born on January 4, 1959, in Central Falls, Rhode Island, René was the beloved son of the late Fernand Proulx and Marguerite (Bouley) Proulx. Although René lived with epilepsy from the age of 13, he faced life’s challenges with resilience and determination, never allowing his condition to define who he was. Instead, he found joy in the people around him and had a remarkable ability to connect with others through his warm personality, kind heart, and genuine friendliness. René had a lifelong love of reading, especially the novels of Stephen King, and was an enthusiastic fan of science fiction movies. He also enjoyed cheering on his beloved Boston Red Sox and looked forward to following the team each season. Whether he was immersed in a good book, watching a favorite film, or enjoying a baseball game, René appreciated the simple things that brought him happiness. One of René’s greatest gifts was his ability to make friends wherever he went. The caregivers and staff who cared for him over the years quickly became more than caregivers—they became friends who appreciated his sense of humor, easygoing nature, and kind spirit. He had a way of making people smile and making those around him feel valued. Above all, René will be remembered for his resilience, his warmth, and his ability to find joy in everyday moments. His gentle spirit, infectious friendliness, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. René is survived by his niece, Lisa Hayes and her husband Alex, his nephew, Christopher Proulx and his wife Serena, great niece, Elise Proulx, and his sister-in-law Marie Proulx. Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by his brother Dennis Proulx. Family and friends are invited to celebrate René’s life on Thursday July 30, 2026, at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, at 2 PM, he will be buried with his parents. DROZDAL FUNERAL HOME of Northampton has been entrusted with his services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Judes, 313 Washington St, Ste 310, Newton, MA. For more information, or to leave the family a personal condolence, please visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com.

René Proulx

June 18, 1963 - July 7, 2026