Photo courtesy of McNally & Watson Funeral & Cremation Service - Clinton
Clinton, Massachusetts
Apr 9, 1946 – Aug 8, 2025
In the early morning hours of Friday, August 8, 2025, John “Jack” Naughton passed away peacefully after a period of declining health.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Martha (Ayers) Naughton; his sister, Mary Manguso and her husband Bill; his brother, Richard Ferrari; sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Jack was born and raised in Clinton to his father Edward Naughton and mother Clara (Seymour) Ferrari. He graduated from the Clinton High School, Class of 1963 and Worcester Junior College. After proudly serving our nation in the US Army and returning home safely, Jack began his lifelong career in sales with ITT Surprenant in Clinton. He would later go on to establish his own business, Browning and Naughton Associates, alongside his dear friend Jim Browning, before finishing his career as Vice President of MGN Associates with Bob Gingras.
Jack was a man with an adventurous spirit. An accomplished pilot, he would often round up friends for golf trips and fishing excursions to remote destinations far and wide. Most memorably, piloting his twin engine Cessna over the North Pole en route to Europe with his brave companions Dick Franklin and Jim Browning along for the ride.
An avid golfer, he was a long-time member of the International Golf Club in Bolton. Many of Jack’s greatest pleasures in life were shared alongside family and friends, often paired with a good Manhattan or fine bottle of Cabernet. Jack’s generosity was second to none.
Calling hours will be held from 4 until 7PM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at the McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St., Clinton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton, with burial to follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Lancaster. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of John “Jack” Naughton to either: Alzheimer’s Association of MA, 320 Nevada St. #201, Newton, MA 02460, or to Veterans Inc., 69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605. Online condolences may be placed at www.mcnallywatson.com
Read MoreMy memories of this gentleman are very fond. I met him many years ago in the great times we had in the old-timers. I saw him several times throughout the years. A great guy. A great wife. I haven't seen him in so long. But my prayers and thoughts are with martha
MICHAEL VETROS
August 14, 2025 | Friend
My dearest Martha, I just learned of Jack’s passing late this evening. Unfortunately, way too late to attend calling hours or funeral services, but I just want you to know how very sorry I am to hear of Jack’s passing. I always thought he was a very special person, with a heart of gold for all, but especially YOU!!! His beautiful love!!! May ALL the blessings and memories you hold in your heart help you as you travel a road that none of us wants to, but it’s not in our hands. Jack will...
Gail Valera-Coolidge
August 12, 2025 | Lancaster, MA | Friend
It is with sincere sadness and regret that I hear about Jack's passing. I have not seen Jack for many years , and yet he is fresh in my memory. It was the early 1970's , Jack was working for ITT and I was going to college at USC , my wife Nancy was going to school in downtown LA. Nancy and I were young kids in a big city , what did Jack do , he came along side us and helped us navigate the city. He would take us out to some of the finest restaurants in the city , taught me how to dress as a...
Thomas Reilly III
August 12, 2025 | Vista, CA | Family
Martha, I was truly saddened to hear of Jack’s passing. He was not only a good friend, but also someone who played an important role in my life over the years.
Jack was the definition of a true professional—always impeccably dressed, consistently kind, considerate of everyone, and never one to speak ill of others. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.
With heartfelt sympathy
Bill Woodbury
Bill Woodbury
August 12, 2025 | Jupiter, FL | Friend
Great next door neighbor, RIP
Joseph Gunther
August 12, 2025 | Fitchburg, MA | Friend
Sending you healing prayers and comforting hugs we are so sorry for your loss
Edward - Ruth Rojcewicz
August 11, 2025 | Rutland, MA | Friend
I was sad to hear about Jack’s passing. It’s been many years since we worked together, but I have fond memories of his kindness and the good times we shared as colleagues. Martha, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Nancy Sarafian
August 11, 2025 | Naples, FL | Coworker
Jack was a classy man. From his youth to the finish line , Jack exuded a rare grace of compassion, kindness, generosity and impeccable style in everything he undertook. Always pleasant in speech and demeanor, Jack had good words for everyone. Jack's philantrophy was spread quietly among numerous charities and youth actvities. In his life Jack gave so much more than he ever sought to take, gifting us all a better life. RIP
Edward McIntyre
August 11, 2025 | Clinton, MA | Friend
Thanks for the memories, “ Jackson”. We shared some wonderful times together, with Martha and Jimmy. We will miss you . Rest in peace.
Lorna Browning
August 10, 2025 | Narragansett, RI | Friend
