Michael E. Denny

Michael E. Denney 1949 - 2012 SPRINGFIELD - Michael Edward Denney died Thursday at home. He lived a life of social justice as demonstrated by his love for community. This love began when he served in the 1970's as a Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay where he worked as an educator. There he learned Spanish and developed an enthusiasm for teaching and community work. He chose to make his home with his family in the North End of Springfield and immerse himself in the life of the neighborhood. In 1993 he began his tenure at New North Citizens' Council, Inc. (NNCC) where he became Executive Director in 2005. At NNCC he worked enthusiastically and collaboratively to bring social services, economic opportunity, and neighborhood events to his beloved community. He leaves a legacy of innovative, often non-traditional services to young children, teens, and families. His relationships in the community enabled him to identify talented workers to improve the lives of families. He mentored and guided his workers to take on professional challenges, obtain degrees, and to always cherish the community. Michael graduated from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. He earned a Master's of Science in Early Childhood Education at the University of Massachusetts where he later conducted research in early learning. He was born April 5, 1949 to Agnes (Johnson) Denney and George Edward Denney in Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael leaves to cherish his memory his wife of over 31 years Janet (Coakley) Rodriguez Denney and their sons Andrew and Jacob. He also leaves his sister Patricia Mc Mahan and her husband Charles, brothers Joseph Denney, James Denney and his wife Tanya, sister-in -law Doreen Rodriguez, her partner Maurice Clarke, sister-in-law Cheryl Coakley-Rivera and brother-in-law James Coakley. He also leaves nephews Shawn, Christopher, Jason, Zachary, Shane, Sean, Devon, Joseph and Justin and was predeceased by Brian. He leaves nieces Beth Ann, Kerry and Lindsy, as well as many grand-nieces and nephews. Also, good friends Jose Claudio, Maria Ligus, Maureen Holland, Jamie Barrett, and Larry and Laurie Aubrey. Friends may meet for the funeral Mass on Monday at 11 am at Sacred Heart Church in Springfield. Committal services will be at the convenience of the family. Calling hours at the West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home will be Sunday from 2-5 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the Barbara Rivera Family Center, c/o NNCC, 2383 Main St., Springfield, MA 01107. For more details, please visit curranjones.com.