Obituary: John P. McMath, Longtime Educator

Obituary from Conway-Cahill Brodeur Funeral Home.

John P. McMath, 85, of Peabody and formerly of Winthrop, died early Monday morning at his home following a brief illness. He was the devoted husband of the late Janet L. (Day) McMath.

Born in Boston, he was the son of the late John A. and Marie (Mann) McMath. He was raised and educated in Dorchester, Somerville and Winthrop. He has lived in Peabody for the past 55 years where he and his wife raised their family.

He graduated from Boston College High School where he played goalie on the hockey team. He continued his education at Boston College where he received his bachelors’ degree in education and was a member of the Boston College Sailing team.

After college he enlisted with the United States Air Force and proudly served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in September of 1952. He then returned to Boston State College and received his Masters Degree.

John started his teaching career in Long Island, NY, and then Winthrop. While he taught in Winthrop, he worked part time as a postal carrier. Lastly, before retiring, he was employed for over 32 years for the town of Danvers, serving in various capacities from teacher to principal at the Thorpe, Smith, Highlands and Maple Street and Tapley schools.

He was instrumental in the design and the implementation of the Smith School. He was as also an assistant coach for the Danvers JV hockey team.

John was an avid sailor, instructor and longtime member at the Cottage Park Yatch Club in Winthrop. Upon his retirement, he enjoyed working at the Beverly Golf and Tennis Club and for many years at The Meadow at Peabody Golf Course as a starter and ranger.

John is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law, James and Sandra McMath of Groton, Jack and Jeanne McMath of North Attleboro, and Jeff and Michelle McMath of Peabody, his daughter, Joanne McMath of Wakefield, his five grandchildren, Jeffrey, Timothy, Kevin, Kacie and Taylor McMath. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Joyce McMath of NH and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Robert McMath.

A private graveside service was held on Friday at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to name to the American Heart Association or the Disabled American Veterans.