Frank H. Mitchell

Frank H. Mitchell, 93, died Sunday, April 3, 2022 at UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves his wife of 62 years, Joan I. (Bryant) Mitchell; their three sons: Mark D. Mitchell of Leominster, Kenneth M. Mitchell of Shrewsbury, and Daniel B. Mitchell of Lancaster; three grandchildren: Alexander Mitchell, Seth M. Zola, and Chloe A. Mitchell.

Frank was born in Melrose, the son of Harold G. and Beatrice G. (Hurley) Mitchell. He was a graduate of Stoneham High School, Class of 1946 and attended Boston University where he earned a B.A. in Sociology, and a Master of Education, followed by a C.A.G.S., and later, an A.B.D. from Boston College.

Frank began his career in education as a teacher in the Norton Public Schools, where he met Joan, the love of his life.  He was later appointed Supervising Principal for the Goffstown, NH Public School Department, and in 1964, Frank was honored to accept the position of Superintendent of Schools for the Town of Lancaster, where he served in that capacity for 26 years until his retirement in 1990. During his tenure, Frank taught graduate courses at Fitchburg State College and Atlantic Union College; and served as an Ombudsman for the MA State Department of Education. Throughout his career, he was honored with numerous Appreciation and Community Service Awards. For two years following retirement, he was the Director of W.H.E.A.T. Community Services.

Frank was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving as a Corporal during the Korean War from 1951-1953, and the US Army Reserve from 1953-1957.

A long-time member of the Lancaster Evangelical Congregational Church, he was a Deacon and active participant in many of the parish events. He was a member and Past Chair Person of the Lancaster Council on Aging, and a former member of the American Association of School Administrators.  He enjoyed reading, hiking, and tennis in his free time.

Funeral services and burial are private. A Memorial Service is to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, please consider a donation in memory of Frank, to Shriners Children's Boston, Burn Unit, 51 Blossom St., Boston, Massachusetts 02114. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St., Clinton. To share a memory or to leave a message of condolence for the family, please sign the guest book.