J. William Mees

Mr. Mees was one of the first teachers that truly made me feel like I was a capable student. As a teacher myself now, I find myself reflecting even more on the teachers that I had, he is quick to come to my mind. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing, and it was only very recently that the discovery was made that he lives three houses away from my husband's parent. One of the greatest people I have ever met, and easily one of the most inspiring teachers to walk the Earth.

Am so saddened to hear about Billy's passing. I grew up across the street from the Mees family in Swampscott, MA and was friendly with his late brother, Frank. My late brother, Stephen (passed in 2019), was a very close friend with Billy, dating back to the 1950's. My last contact with Bill was in our 2021 Xmas card exchange in which he shared his failing health. He'd be so thrilled to see his legacy in education live on. Bill was a class act and will be very missed. RIP.

Moose had the gift. After 43 years my bookshelf still has the Hemingway, Fitzgerald and Melville novels he so eloquently expounded upon. Outside the classroom he was the fun uncle, treating us to Durgin-Park and blasting George Harrison and ABBA from the turntable. Thank you, JW!

Bill was the best teacher and one of the people who have left the biggest impact on my life so far. I am deeply moved about his decease and cannot believe he is gone. I am unbelievably grateful for having met Bill, for his tutoring, guidance and friendship and miss him already so much. My consolences to his family.