Retired Worcester educator dies after emergency on vacation

  • Career of former South Assistant Principal John McFadden spanned decades

    John McFadden (GoFundMe)

    John Austin McFadden, a retired Worcester educator who was beloved by his family, colleagues, and students, has passed away at the age of 74, according to GoFundMe fundraising campaign and obituary.

    McFadden suffered a traumatic brain injury while on vacation in Cancun, Mexico. He was transported back to UMass Memorial Health Care-University Campus Worcester for emergency care. Despite the best efforts of his medical team and family, he passed away on March 3rd.

    "John graduated from St. Peter’s High School with the class of 1966 and went on to receive degrees from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Worcester State College, and Harvard University," his obituary reads. "He proudly served in the United States Marine Corp during the Vietnam Era before beginning his exceptional career in teaching and administration for the Worcester Public Schools."

    McFadden was a dedicated and passionate educator who spent decades teaching and administrating in the Worcester Public Schools. He was particularly interested in special education, alternative education, and teaching and learning. He was committed to providing his students with unprecedented opportunities to succeed and was respected and admired by his colleagues.

    McFadden was also a devoted family man who was deeply loved by his wife, Suzanne, and their 3 children, Sean, Meggan, and Anne Marie. He had a strong moral compass and was known for his wisdom and patience. He was also an avid reader and believer in the American Dream.

    McFadden's passing is a great loss to his family, friends, and community. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to education.

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