Jerome R. Worell

Although I was never lucky enough to learn from him in a classroom, Mr. Worell was nevertheless my teacher. He was always such a supportive and generous presence and I will never forget him.

I am a Sandburg High School alum and Mr. Worell was one of my favorite faces in the English department when I was a student. He told me I was bright and gave me Toni Morrison's literary criticism and Gwendolyn Brooks' poetry to read. He presented me with the English Department award when I graduated in 1997. His distinctive sense of humor and encouragement got me through many rough times in high school from English Advanced Placement Exams and College Admissions Essays to teenage growing...

To the entire Worell family,
Our family was so sad to hear the news about your father. He was a very special man with a kind heart and everyone that knew him felt a little better for having met him. He will be sincerely missed by those of us who were lucky enough to meet him. Your family is in our prayers

Mr. Worell was one of my favorite teachers, and I know many people would agree. Last month I was on vacation with Greg Pajon (who was also in that class) and we put on my Bob Seger CD. When “Night Moves” came on, I commented on how that song will always remind me of Mr. Worell because we analyzed it in class. Greg couldn’t have agreed more. We often talk about how fun that class was and how much we learned. He will never be forgotten.

To Rachel and her family,
My deepest sympathies go out to you. Mr. Worell was such a great man and I will always remember the time I was able to spend with you and him on your family vacations. I will never forget our road trips to Wisconsin Dells and Virginia Beach. He always made me feel like I belonged, and he always had a wonderful story to keep us entertained. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers, and I want you to know that I feel lucky to have ever known him.

Rachel,
Although I never knew your dad, I never heard anything but wonderful things about him from friends who had him as a teacher. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Sorry we could not be home with you, but you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers everyday.

I just wanted to pass on my respects for Mr. Worrell's family. He was a great teacher and mentor when he taught me in 1983. He will be missed...

I just want to send my deepest sympathy to his family. I can't even tell you what a wonderful teacher Mr. Worell was. I enjoyed his class the most when I attended Sandburg in 1999. He always had wonderful things to say and teach.
God Bless!

Rachel and Josh,
I'm so sorry about your father. If there is anything I can do for you let me know.
Love,
Rachel Motyka