Published in the September 10, 2019 edition.
EAST DENNIS — Joseph F. Casey, 65, of East Dennis passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2019 after a long illness. A lifelong Massachusetts resident, Joe grew up in Cambridge and also lived for many years in Wakefield. A devoted husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend, Joe always put others first. Joe was a voracious reader and Anglophile, which informed the first chapter of his long career in education as an English teacher at Arlington High School, where he met his wife of 36 years Ellie. His passion for education led to significant contributions to the lives of countless students, families, and educators over his more than 30 year-long career.
He became a fixture in whichever community he worked, embracing his association with the school communities as a teacher in Arlington and Burlington, the director of curriculum and technology in Georgetown, assistant superintendent in Stoneham, and superintendent of schools in Melrose. Joe thoroughly enjoyed travel abroad, but felt especially at home during summer vacations on Cape Cod where he and his wife eventually moved upon retirement. He was a fitness enthusiast and an avid golfer, continually honing his skills. He also enjoyed sharing fine wines, bicycling, and retaining a truly daunting amount of trivia about everything from minor Harry Potter characters to Shakespearean works.
Joe is survived by his wife Elinor Freedman of East Dennis; son Daniel Casey of Los Angeles; twin brother Ned Casey and wife Manda of Morgantown, Ky.; sister Mary Casey of Cambridge; brother Michael Casey and his wife Janet of Saratoga Springs, N.Y.; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Barbara and Mitch Wand of Boston and Dennis; and brother-in-law Bill Freedman of Dennis, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 12 at 1 o’clock at Oak Ridge Cemetery in South Dennis. Family and friends are invited to visit with family at their home following the service.
For online condolences please visit www.doanebealamesdennis.com.
