Dr. John R. Cleary
March 7, 2024
Dr. John R. Cleary, Ph.D., born in New York, NY, on November 23, 1939, left us peacefully on March 7, 2024. He was more than a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and a schoolteacher, he was an architect of a loving world, fostering a passion for sports and resilience through all life’s challenges.
Despite the shifts in family dynamics, he remained a steadfast teacher, mentor, and supporter. As a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, Chairman of the Bethel Board of Education, a baseball and football coach, and an English teacher in the Norwalk public school system, his influence extended beyond our family. His dedication to education and betterment, especially in English, has left a lasting imprint on many.
Dr. Cleary grew up in the 1950s, on the diverse and culture-rich streets of Hell’s Kitchen in New York City. He would often share stories about his (attempted) bicycle riding, playing stickball, being with friends in a convertible driven by a relative of Mama Leone (yes, the real Mama Leone), and the discovery of one of the loves of his life, basketball. John played hoops at the famed Power Memorial High School with his brother, Jim, and matched skills against a young Lew Alcindor (later on known as Kareem AbdulJabbar). He continued to compete in basketball, baseball, and tennis, while raising a family in Bethel.
In the days beyond competitive sports, John enjoyed traveling in Europe and the
Caribbean, collecting art and antiques, raising beagles, paying card games, obtaining dual citizenship with an Irish passport, and was always interested in a lively debate on politics or the changing American culture.
His children, the “Cleary Clan”, owes their tenacity and strong work ethic to him. He taught us to aim high and pursue our dreams with all our might. Dad was also a prolific writer, contributing to local news and actively participating in community roles. His generosity knew no bounds, significantly impacting the Bethel High School Football community and beyond.
He leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Stephanie, brother, James, children, Kevin, Brian, Sean, Cathy, Matthew, and Glen, 17 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. His teachings and spirit continue to guide us, inspiring strength and determination in every challenge we face.
Dad, your legacy lives on in each of us. You will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. Love you, Dad, until we meet again.