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Ann Leavitt Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ann Leavitt
Sponsored by John Leavitt.
James C. Swensen
July 5, 2025
What a great and special lady, Ms. Leavitt. She was my science teacher at the Fay School. I received the best education in my three years at that school it seems than the rest of my schooling including college. I definitely was well prepared with knowledge way beyond my peers. All due to Fay and one of two of my favorite teachers there, the other being Ms. Williams for English. Mrs leavitt, so very funny and highly intelligent and evolved as a human being and a strong woman who as everyone has read definitely accomplished everything she put her mind to. She walked the talk again and again. She was so kind to me, the quiet, shy, scared kid who hadn't blossomed yet. She treated me as if, your going to be fine kind of way, always saying kind funny statements to me always with a smile and a laugh. Total positivity and beauty with her. Like Ms Williams I observed a great mind, loving heart, and beautiful soul. What more can one ask for in someone special as Ms. Leavitt. Great teacher full of knowledge. I learned a lot from her. She was the real deal. Thank you Ms. Leavitt up there laughing in heaven, you definitely made a big positive impact on my life.
Chris & Tim. We'll miss you.
September 18, 2008
Mom, Lucy & Glenny, Gram,Tom, Eleanor
September 18, 2008
Mom and John share a book moment
September 18, 2008
The Astronomer
September 18, 2008
Mom and Dad
September 18, 2008
Party time!
September 18, 2008
Julie, Larry, Katie & Christopher LITTLE
September 6, 2008
I was sad to hear that Annie became ill after leaving Fay. She had so much to give and I am so sorry her life was cut short. I taught two doors down from Annie upstairs in Reinke and while we were in different departments (science and ISP) we worked together to serve the Fay students. Annie was always quick with compassion and a hug for anyone (student or faculty alike). I remember the quilts she helped teach so many Fay students to sew - for local infants born in area hospitals. Her "molecule projects" were a colorful addition to the walls of Reinke (and often snacked upon by students!!). It was a common scene to see Annie sitting at one of her tables working with a struggling student or visiting with others during free periods. She was a friend to all and she will be greatly missed. My family and I send our sincerest condolences to all of the Leavitts. Annie leaves a big hole in our universe! God Speed, friend! Be at peace . . .
Jane Kim
September 6, 2008
It has been quite a while that I graduated from Fay..but it was the first boarding school that I attended which also provided so much for me that I could never forget..and especially Mrs. Leavitt who was literally my first science teacher in the United States. I have always thanked her for her kindess and caring, and especially her love for the students... I miss her..
Catherine Moran
September 3, 2008
May the love of family and friends, and cherished memories get you through the difficult days. Annie was a friend and favorite colleague of my Mother (Mary Ann Perejda, Business Office). I also had the pleasure of working with Annie during my years in the Fay Business & Development Office. She is the definition of "Fay Family". I hope that my children will be fortunate enough to experience a teacher like Annie.
Scott Brewitt
August 28, 2008
I was a Hoodlum as well and my mom was also a teacher. So, I had the opportunity to visit with "Mrs. Leavitt" many times after leaving Fay. I am grateful to have been 'straightened out' by her and her direct approach for the obvious.
She embodied why parents would send their kids to Fay.
Scott Brewitt '79
Cathy Logan
August 27, 2008
Annie! So much has already been said about this wonderful lady. All true. She was one of the first teachers I met when I started working at Fay in 1973. I remember her as a warm and welcoming lady who you knew immediately loved her work and especially her students. Even after they graduated, they continued to be HER students. There were many Monday mornings when Annie would come into my office to say what alums stopped by her house over a weekend just to say hello and she would invite them to stay. Most did. Annie made people feel comfortable - what a gift that is. Her "hugs" have reached around the world. She is already missed.
Maureen Finlayson
August 27, 2008
As the parents of one of her "hoodlums" at Fay, we will forever be grateful to Annie for the kindness and inspiration she provided to our son and all the students she touched. Our sincere condolences go out to all her family and friends.
Maureen and Rich DeMello
Dean and Susan Greenberg
August 27, 2008
Annie was a wonderful mentor, colleague, friend, and kindred spirit. We will miss her greatly.
Tanya Kowalczykowski
August 27, 2008
I just heard the news last night and am so, so saddened to hear of Mrs. Leavitt's passing... yet I feel happy to have had the privilege of knowing her and feeling her warmth.
Mrs. Leavitt made a difference in my life.
My advisor at Fay from '84-87, she always had a hug ready when I needed one. She made me feel welcome in new and unfamiliar surroundings. I will never forget her quick wit, her humor, her kindness.
I am grateful that I was able to thank her in person a few years back, as adulthood sometimes puts into perspective things we took for granted as children.
She was a comfort and a blessing, and she leaves behind a legacy of goodwill and fond memories. FAY was a better place because of her, and I daresay we are all better people for having known her.
In loving memory,
Tanya Kowalczykowski '87
Thomas Lydon, MD, PhD
August 26, 2008
I was a hoodlum indeed.
But I got better.
Thank you, Mrs Leavitt.
Andy Locsin
August 26, 2008
That Annie Leavitt profoundly influenced her students as a teacher, mentor, woman, mother, person, is an understatement.
Whether it had to do with comforting me as an insecure student in class, dispensing a science lesson with absolute clarity, offering kids a cup of tea on the way down to Deets, giving back some of the lip Bayard DeMallie was dishing out, dealing with Les Stevenson's intransigence, or blowing up a pile of Copper Sulfate on the lab counter, Mrs. Leavitt was the most "unflusterable" practitioner of what pastoral care was all about at Fay School. To a young kid, she was a shining example of being a terrific listener, being sensitive, caring, and imparting a no-nonsense, principled, positive, and proactive sensibility to her chargés. She was the embodiment of the best of New England.
During one of Jack Craig's mini-courses, The History of Rock 'n' Roll, we were treated to a visit with a local band called "ICE", to learn how a band worked out its material. The presentor was a guitarslinger who played a pristine white doublenecked guitar -- Timmy Leavitt -- someone who, at that moment, was indeed the coolest person in the world. When told that he was Annie Leavitt's son, many of us wondered in hushed conversations what manner of absolute hipness existed in the Leavitt household... that our science teacher was somehow instrumental in mothering the coolest, hippest individual on earth.
And now, many years later, as we saunter into our (hopefully) productive middle age, some of us Fay grads of the late 70's find ourselves somehow involved in the establishment, operation, and governance of educational institutions in various parts of the world. I, for one, continue to search for our equivalents of Annie Leavitt in the Philippines, in the hope of being able to underscore the values of empathy, principle, fastidiousness, the importance of fun, a meritocracy and that no-nonsense sensibility for a new generation of kids within another culture halfway around the globe in Manila. I like to imagine that Bayard DeMallie is doing the same thing somewhere in Jordan.
And on weekends, I still hack away (in relative secrecy) on my six strings with a local band, encourage my 11-year old to figure out the tunes on his iPod, and scour the classifieds for an elusive white doubleneck guitar of memory over 30 years ago.
Thank you Annie Leavitt for leaving us with little pieces of yourself. You are truly alive.
Andy Locsin
Class of '77
Adele & Greg Smith
August 26, 2008
Don to you and your family our sincere thoughts at this time.
It was impossible to hear you talk of Annie and not hear the love in your voice.
Patty Stone
August 26, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Peter and Hinda Drotch
August 26, 2008
Some of our fondest memories are the times we spent with Ann Leavitt discussing our children. Her interest in their academic and personal development continued long past their days at Fay. She was a mentor to them and a friend and inspiration to all of us. Our deepest sympathies to her family.
Allyson Larsen
August 26, 2008
To the Leavitt Family: Please accept our deepest sympathies. Ann has left many fond memories with all of us and we are saddened by her loss.
Please know you are in our prayers.
The Castelli's
Inna Boren
August 26, 2008
I was very lucky to have Mrs. Leavitt as a teacher and an adviser. I will always remember her kindness, caring and thoughtfulness. She defined the concept of "being a great teacher." And yes I am still "trying to keep it down to a dull roar." My prayers are with her family and friends.
Kelly Prendergast
August 25, 2008
Dear Daphne and Family, I was saddened to hear of the loss of your mother, but am praying that she is no longer in any distress and that you all, who have cared for her so well in these times, may also rest knowing that she is at peace. She was a fine lady with lovely children and grandchildren. With Love, Kelly Prendergast
Tom Sullivan
August 25, 2008
I was very sad to hear of the passing of Mrs. Leavitt, she was a great lady that made science fun for all. I will always remember our trips out of class and how she made everything interesting. As a student of hers in the 70's I learned quite a bit about science and life.
Ed Caruso
August 25, 2008
Daph, We were so sorry to hear of your loss. May the strenght of your friends and family help you through this difficult time. Michele and I will always cherish the conversations we had with your mom.
Southborough Historical Society
August 25, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Susan Hannan-Lopez
August 24, 2008
When I think back to my Fay days, I always think about Mrs. Leavitt. She was the kindest lady, and always had a knack for making you feel good. She was a mentor and inspiration to all of us. My sympathies to all her family. May God bless them and Mrs. Leavitt.
Ryan Riegg
August 23, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt was one of the kindest, most encouraging, and warmest teachers I ever had. In a school of children who were away from home for the first time at a fairly young age - I know she played a huge role for many of us in helping us make it through. She will be missed.
PABLO RIVERO
August 23, 2008
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO HER FAMILY I REMEBER MRS LEAVITT BY BEEING VERY NICE TO ME I SAW THE PHOTO ALBUM AND ITS INCREDEBILE BUT SUCH IS LIFE A BIG HUG AND LOTS OF PRAYERS TO HER FAMILY. PABLO RIVERO GUADALAJARA MEXICO 1970 -1972
best wishes from the Hassell family to the Leavitts
cyndy HASSELL
August 23, 2008
My sincerest sympathies to the family of a wonderful, memorable, loving human being...........
regards, Cyndy Hassell
Past Pres. of Fay Parents' Assoc. '97
mother of Nathan '93, Ryan '98
peace be with her spirit
Steve White
August 23, 2008
The Fay Family has lost one of its true stars. Annie welcomed so warmly all who entered her classroom or her life, and for that we will all be eternally grateful. Frank McCourt wrote TEACHER MAN; by virtue of her daily actions, Annie lived TEACHER WOMAN. She was always there for every student and worked tirelessly to help each girl and boy find success as a science student and as a developing person. She was a role model for teachers both young and older, showing us that as teachers we must honor and address the needs of every child in our classrooms no matter what the challenge or how long it might take. A true champion for children.....
Her legacy lives in us all.
Steve and Maggie White
Chris Lutton
August 23, 2008
I lived next door to the Leavitt's for 2 years and Tim and I were great friends growing up. I will always remember Tim's Mom as a warm, loving, generous person who has always had a place in my heart from my childhood. She will be missed, but she left behind a lot of love.
Greg Medina
August 22, 2008
To Tim, Molly and family,
Please accept my deepest of sympathy for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers for strength in your time of grief.
Lean on me when you're not strong, and I'll be your friend.
I'll help you carry on.
Linda Chase
August 22, 2008
I'm a friend (and bandmate) of Tim's, and I know how highly Ann was regarded by all who knew her. My condolences and prayers go out to her family and friends.
Danielle Baruch (Brendler)
August 22, 2008
I was so very sorry to hear of Mrs. Leavitt's passing. Although I am now 40 years old, I recall her class with warm memories. I remember her humor, her dedication and the love she had for all of us. I will always remember Mrs. Leavitt with a smile.
I am so sorry John for the loss of your mother...she meant a lot to all of us.
Rest in Peace Mrs. Leavitt
Jeremy Cramer
August 22, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt left an indelible mark on my life. She made the study of science such a joy and I will always remember her bright smile and giving spirit.
During my tenure as a professional at Fay, I remember hearing that Mrs. Leavitt spent countless extra hours helping a student from Thailand translate many of the words in his science textbook so that he better understood his studies. This passion for supporting students in so many creative ways will be one of her many legacies.
J.P. Stevenson
August 22, 2008
So sorry to read about the passing of Mrs. Leavitt. She was one of my teachers in 1970! When I think of Fay, Mrs. Leavitt always comes to mind. She was very compassionate with her students! My condolences to her family.
Mindy Hohman
August 22, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt was more to me than a teacher - she was a safe haven and a mentor. I was one of the first girls at Fay, graduating in 1977, and she was one of the teachers who truly supported the assimilation of girls at Fay. I adored and respected her.
Karen Connell
August 22, 2008
I was honored to sit in Mrs. Leavitt's 8th grade science class. She came up with the moniker "hoodlum" during this time. Mrs. Leavitt has touched the future through her educating, a gentle influence which will remain.
Frank Vaudreuil Busconi
August 22, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt is a teacher that I remember so fondly, not only for her teaching ability, but for the many kindnesses she showed me. Peace, Mrs. Leavitt.
Frank Vaudreuil Busconi, class of 1981
Borja Cuan
August 22, 2008
I have many fond memories of Mrs. Leavitt. I will always remember the patience and understanding she had not only with me but with my classmates. Two of the most important attributes only the best teachers possess.
Barbara Hawks
August 22, 2008
To Don and family
I and my children are very sorry to hear of Ann'passing.Barbara Hawks
and children Frank,Stephen.Cora
John Laura and Paul. We miss Southboro.
Michael Martin
August 21, 2008
Many and happy are my memories of Mrs. Leavitt. Her kindness and compassion stand out as exceptional, along with her unending patience. She is will be missed and remembered in the days ahead.
Michael Martin
Fay class of 1988
David Panagore
August 21, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt cared. Mrs Leavitt made science interesting. Mrs. Leavitt made an outsider day student class of 79 feel involved and engaged. Just thinking of this, thinking on this leaves a whole childhood. Thank You Mrs. Leavitt. I wish I had had the chance.
Andy Long
August 21, 2008
Annie was an inspiration to me as a teacher. She often shared with me her wisdom and philosophy through the years in our neighboring classrooms. I cannot think of anyone else so devoted to her kids (both biological and educational) and to the natural world around us all. Her departure from this world is a huge loss, but her legacy at Fay and in this town will be timeless.
Romeo Diaz
August 21, 2008
My deepest condolences to her family, she was an amazing teacher, she cared for us liked she had know us for years.
Sally Washburn
August 21, 2008
As a student of Mrs. Leavitt's class of 1989 - I just want to send my love and support - and let you know that she was such a great person and teacher...and despite her love of complaining on the length of my skirts...I respected her greatly and enjoyed her classses.
Jessica Duncan Magill
August 21, 2008
I am thinking of you at this time of great loss. I am one of Mrs. Leavitt's former students. I graduated in 1987. I want to let you know that she influenced me in a profound way. She was an amazing teacher, incredible person, and quiet leader. I am now a teacher, and she is one of the teachers in my life that I will never forget. I know that she is peaceful in heaven now. God Bless you Mrs. Leavitt.
Christian Gulliksen
August 21, 2008
It seems impossible that Mrs Leavitt is gone. I hadn't seen her since I was a student in the eighties, but she made a significant impact on me and I often think of her, still. What an remarkable woman! To her family I offer genuine condolence.
Cale Miller
August 21, 2008
I was just thinking about Mrs. Leavitt yesterday. She certainly ranks among the best teachers I ever had and I have many fond memories of her. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Jason Bitensky
August 21, 2008
My deepest condolences to her family. She had an incredible impact on thousands of students during her 33 year tenure at Fay.
Christina Lamb
August 21, 2008
To Don and all of Anne's family,
Our condolences to you and our thanks for sharing Anne with us at church, in the community and at Fay School for all these years. She was always very kind and welcoming to us, a warm and happy presence who made every place she occupied feel like a haven to those around her. Our prayers are with you, Christina, John, Julian & Olivia Lamb
Jon Sellman
August 21, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt was one of the finest teachers I ever had. She brought so much knowledge, kindness and fun to the classroom. A true Fay School original, she will be missed. My most sincere condolences to her family.
Joanna MacKnight-Thomson
August 21, 2008
I was so sorry to hear about Mrs. Leavitt's passing. She was a caring, wonderful woman who taught me so much not only about science but also about life. She will be truly missed.
Edward Bigelow
August 21, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt was one of the best. We loved her. I was an original hoodlum, 8th grade 1970. Many fond memories. Her cheerful disposition was precious. My deepest sympathy.
Skee Bigelow
Angela Arigoni-Mesfioui
August 21, 2008
Annie was a special person and a wonderful colleague. She will definitely be missed by all. I will miss returning to Fay and walking down Main St. to say hi and catch up.
Susan Tolland
August 21, 2008
Don and Family, My very best to you at this sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Susie (Clarke) Tolland
The Staff of Morris Funeral Home
August 21, 2008
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Ann with husband Don and son John
August 20, 2008
Ann with husband Don and grandsons Tommy and Harry
August 20, 2008
Wedding Day, 1954
August 20, 2008
Ann with her family on her dream trip in London, England
August 20, 2008
Regina Joseph Winslow
August 20, 2008
Mrs Leavitt was a wonderful teacher and a compassionate person. My thoughts are with her family during this sad time.
Audrey Doherty-Feely
August 20, 2008
Mrs. Leavitt was my advisor while I was a student at Fay. She was always so kind and compassionate when listening to all the dramatic anxieties of a teenager. And she could always make me laugh. She will be greatly missed.
edward goldman
August 20, 2008
As a former student I can only say she was one of the kindest people I knew.
Justin Solomon
August 20, 2008
Her goodness radiated in so many ways through her former students at Fay. I am sure that will add to her everlasting joy and the joy of her family.
Erik Lovequist
August 19, 2008
John and family - May peace and grace be with you at this difficult time.
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