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BORN
1949
DIED
2026
FUNERAL HOME
John Estes Obituary
John was born in North Adams on May 7, 1949, the eldest son of Lester "Flash" Estes and Ida (Maroni) Estes. He graduated from St. Josephs in 1967 and from North Adams State College in 1971. It was at NASC that he met his wife to be Donna (Marie) Jolin. They were married in May of 1972. After college, John started teaching at Clarksburg Elementary School, where he would stay for 35 years, retiring in 2006. During the summer months, you could find John working at Natural Bridge State Park.
Coaching was a passion of John's. He coached at Clarksburg, North Adams State, Drury, and McCann, amongst others. He was inducted into the Berkshire County Girls Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, John was a diehard Packers and Dodgers fan, teams that he latched on to by tuning into distant radio broadcasts on his AM radio. Horse racing was another of John's passions, which started with selling programs at Green Mountain Racetrack. Summer treks to Saratoga in August with friends were frequent.
Spending time with his grandchildren brought John great joy. Even while battling illness at the end of his life, he almost never missed one of his grandchildren's games.
John is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Donna (Jolin) Estes, his two children Deron Estes and his wife Suzanne-Newby Estes of Amherst and Amy (Estes) Cyr and her husband Carl Cyr of Hadley, his four grandchildren Jackson Estes, Sadie Cyr, Teddy Cyr, and Henry Estes, his brother David Estes and his wife Judi Estes of Bennington, VT, his aunt Maryann Maroni and many cousins.
We would like to thank his family and friends who stayed in touch and supported him when he most needed it and CDH Hospice for their gentle care and guidance through some very difficult times. We would also like to thank Berkshire Medical Center Oncology, CDH Cancer Center, and Brigham & Women's for all the care they provided.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga (thsaratoga.org/donate).
Please join us for a Celebration of Life at 3West in the NORAD mill (Suite 305, 60 Roberts Dr., North Adams, MA) on March 9th from 4pm to 7pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Estes
Sponsored by The Berkshire Eagle.
Had Mills
March 16, 2026
As a former student of Mr. Estes at Clarksburg Elementary School, my deepest condolences to his family. My fondest memories--he was teacher, coach, mentor and friend. Not many teachers would play football at recess, but Mr. Estes would be the official quarterback for both teams. God Bless and RIP
John & Sheila Bouley
March 13, 2026
We donated a tree in Memory of John
Debra LaCasse
March 12, 2026
Donna and family, I am so sorry for your loss. John was an amazing man and coach. He was kind, patient, supportive and had the ability to always bring out the best of his players! They always gave the game their all and I know it was because of the support and guidance Coach gave to everyone on the team. I feel lucky and blessed to have shared so many wonderful memories of Coach and the McCann girls basketball team. He will be missed by many.May all your special memories help you through this difficult time. Donna and family you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace, Coach
Carol (Skowronski ) Spofford
March 9, 2026
Dear Donna, Deron, and Amy, I had the pleasure of working with John for many years at Clarksburg. John was one in a million. He was a dedicated teacher. He made learning fun for all his students. He was just so much fun to be around making us laugh everyday. I have so many precious memories of John and his antics. One memory I treasure are the plays we would put on during the holidays. He would be in charge of the actors, costumes and props. I would play the piano and direct the chorus for the show. Students and parents were so involved and love the productions. Who could ever forget John popping out of our principal´s birthday cake? How we loved his Halloween costumes.
John May you rest in peace - thank you for all the happy years at Clarksburg. It was an honor to work with you and call you my friend.
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Ric and Suzanne Jackson
March 8, 2026
Dear Donna and Family,
Stealing a quote from one of my favorite movies "Each man´s life touches so many other lives." As I read through these tributes, it´s crystal clear that Johnny has left his mark on this world. Reaching so many through teaching and coaching, along with all of his friends and family members he has touched.
I will miss him dearly, as he was one of a kind, but know his impact will live on. I hope that your memories will carry all of you through the days ahead.
One of our favorite memories was when Johnny made it to Matty´s wedding, which wasn´t easy for him, but it meant the world to us.
Keeping you all in our prayers.
Love, Ric and Suz
SYR
March 6, 2026
ONE THE BEST
TEAMMATE, CLASSMATE AND A GOOD FRIEND
Linda and James Freeney
March 5, 2026
Donna, Deron and Amy, We are so sad to hear about John. What a great man. As a teacher, coach, friend, Dad, Husband he went beyond all expectations. He was so easy to be around. Always funny and cheerful and never a bad word about anyone. I will remember eating raw clams with him cheering me on, playing whiffle ball, and watching a huge field of his dahlias grow. We will never forget him. Thinking of you all. Love, Jim and Linda Freeney
Diane and Rick Shakar
March 5, 2026
Donna: our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Cousin John was so much fun to be around. I know texting and phone calls were difficult for him, but I cherished our time when he was up to it. He will be missed. I miss him now. RIP cousin. Diane and Rick Shakar
Nicole (Cody) Shakar
March 5, 2026
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. In the brief time I knew him, he was the extremely kind and funny. I'm blessed to have met him.
Phil, Terry and Jacob Vivori
March 4, 2026
Dear Donna, Deron, Amy and family, John was an Amazing man. He was a great teacher for our son and one of our favorite memories was soending time with you all at Peter and Nora's wedding! We were so honored to have known him. We're so sorry for your loss. Sending our deepest condolences and prayers!
Jennifer (Kove) Rose
March 4, 2026
I had Mr. Estes in 6th grade at Clarksburg Elementary. He was a wonderful teacher. I remember all the projects but especially loved creating the Nature Trail.
My current yard´s wooded area has some rare Lady´s Slippers orchids that grow each spring. I know what they are because they were found during that project and he knew all about them. We made sure to protect them on the trail.
RIP Mr. Estes.
Stephen Heelan
March 4, 2026
John (Coach) was always a friendly face around town when back for a visit...another "good guy!" My sincere condolence to the entire Estes family.
Jo Ann (Crosby) Ryckman
March 3, 2026
I knew John through my son Zac who was good friends with Deron and Amy. He certainly raised two wonderful children and was such a great influence on the youth in our community. My deepest condolences to the family - Donna, Deron,Amy, grandchildren.
Zac Crosby
March 3, 2026
Donna, Deron, Amy and family my deepest condolences. I have so many wonderful memories of spending time with you all. I remember watching a lot of basketball and John was always cooking up some good food. I recall making a few phone calls over the years to get the inside scoop on a horse race or two. I guess we will see you again at post time at that big track in the sky!
Tammy, Katelyn, Stephan, Chet
March 3, 2026
Donna & family, We are so sorry to hear the passing of Coach Estes!
He will be missed by so many people who loved him dearly. May Coach Rest in Peace!
Dolores Burns
March 3, 2026
Donna I am so sorry to hear of John´s passing. May he rest in peace
Marie A Kelly-Whitney
March 3, 2026
Coach was a dedicated man to his students and players. I always called him Coach, even when we disagreed on things. A kind man throughout his life. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
Kimberly Gorman Gavagan
March 3, 2026
I was one of John's students at Clarksburg Elementary back in the early 1980s and he is one of my favorite and most memorable teachers. I have thought of him often over the years. In fact, we drove by a Revolutionary War marker here in NJ just last weekend and I instantly thought of him. His whole unit on the Revolution was interesting and inspiring. I've never forgotten some of his lessons. He was a fantastic teacher who made learning fun. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. May his memory be a blessing.
Jamie Field
March 3, 2026
Mr Estes was a great teacher at Clarksburg School he did wonderful special work with both of my boys !
Nanette schmidt
March 3, 2026
Donna.
I very sadden to hear of John passing I have fond memories of him when we were kids. He touch many peoples life´s prayers are with you all
JoAnne Lavin
March 3, 2026
Donna, Deron, Amy, Dave, Judi & his beloved grandchildren,
Jeff and I send our sincere condolences. "Johnny" lead a well lived and very well loved life.
His presence always added excitement and fun to family events. His love of horse racing goes way back and I will never forget listening to his Chalco races as a kid.
He cared deeply about his family, his students and the athletes he coached.
Blessed to have him both as a cousin and a 6th grade history teacher! His nerf basketball quizzes were the best!
God speed, Johnny.
JoAnne & Jeff Lavin
Joyce (and the boys)
March 3, 2026
Mrs Coach, my sincere condolences. He made me feel like I was so important to the team and that meant so much to me. I will never forget afternoons spent at Fish Pond/the Glen, and all those hours driving that year we never had a home meet. Most importantly, I will never forget his kindness and yours.
AL Giorgi
March 3, 2026
My condolences.
I always enjoyed our talks about basketball when we saw each other.
Tina Fortin
March 3, 2026
So sorry to hear of John´s passing. We shared high school together at St. Joe and he always kept us laughing and sharing fun times. He will be missed
Sincerely
Michael Cardinal
March 3, 2026
My deepest condolences to the family. John was a great person, teacher and a coach. God Bless
Heather DeMarsico
March 3, 2026
John was one of those teachers you could never forget. He was fun, energetic and brought education to life! He was a wonderful teacher and a great person all around. He was also a great neighbor up here in Florida. I know my golden retriever misses barking at him every time he walked by. My deepest sympathies to his wife and family. He will be missed
Laurie
March 3, 2026
Mr. Estes was a great teacher and coach. He was an inspiration to so many of his students and team members. He will be greatly missed. So sorry for your loss. Laurie Schnopps (Tatro) Tiger
Donna Choquette
March 3, 2026
So very sorry to hear of John´s passing, Donna. Sending prayers and condolences to you and your family.
Brenda Sheable (Cutting)
March 3, 2026
Sorry for the loss of a good teacher and person.
Cheryl Witherell
March 3, 2026
John and I became cancer pals when we were first diagnosed in 2018.' He supported my recurrence and I supported his. We became close friends, and as I continue to fight , I will think of my friend John every step of the way . Fly high, John,! You have earned your wings. My love is with you, Cheryl Witherell
Linda (Cook) Gravel
March 3, 2026
I believe my friends n I were one of first classes he taught at Clarksburg..oh so many years ago.....I saw him a couple of years ago n we caught each other up..He was such a nice person...May he now be at peace...Condolences to his family...
Mike Casuscelli
March 3, 2026
He was my first basketball coach at The Old St. Joseph´s School building. RIP Coach!
Tom Molloy
March 3, 2026
My dear friend John, thank you for your friendship, your spirit and the joy you brought to so many during your life. I have such fond memories from our time together at St. Joseph"s School. To the Estes family, I send my sincere condolences and prayers for this very good man. Rest in peace dear friend.
Todd Lincoln
March 3, 2026
My condolences to the family John was a great inspiration to so many children in his life including myself and my children bye teacher and coach you will be missed by many rip john
Heather LaCasse
March 3, 2026
Donna and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Coach was one of a kind, selflessly giving, supporting, and guiding those around him. Coach knew how to make everyone feel special in their own way and had so much faith in each of us. I am so grateful our paths crossed when they did. Thank you for extending your family to include us over all of these years. We are all better people for it.
Heather LaCasse
March 3, 2026
Donna and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Coach was one of a kind, selflessly giving, supporting, and guiding those around him. Coach knew how to make everyone feel special in their own way and had so much faith in each of us. I am so grateful our paths crossed when they did. Thank you for extending your family to include us over all of these years. We are all better people for it.
Glenn and Sandy Girard
March 2, 2026
We are sorry to hear of John's passing. I will always remember when he gave me a beautiful chess set. John was a great guy! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at the difficult time
Mary Paree
March 2, 2026
Donna so to hear of Johns passing sending our thoughts and prayers to you and your family
Debbie Darling
March 2, 2026
Donna and family, I am so sorry for your loss. John was such a nice man. Sending prayers.
Stephen Marceau
March 2, 2026
Sad to hear of John's passing, I was fortunate to have him as a youth basketball coach in the old St Francis league and then see him around town through the years and share some laughs. My condolences to the family and Johns many students and friends, RIP John
Christopher DeLuca
March 2, 2026
My condolences to the Estes family. One season of little league in 1984, a lifetime of memories. I also credit him with learning the Lord's Prayer as we said it before every game. We slayed the giants of the East to win it all coach! . RIP Mr Estes.
Lisa Berry
March 2, 2026
What a beautiful obituary. I am so sorry, this is truly a great loss. He was such a special soul, I feel lucky to have known him, if only for 10 years. His sweet, thoughtful nature and kindness live on in those who loved him. He was a model to the rest of us.
Colleen Field (Moore)
March 2, 2026
An amazing man, teacher, and coach. I had the honor of being one of his students and basketball players at Clarksburg School. A truly special soul who touched many lives. The world will miss you, Mr. Estes.
Susan Colvin (King)
March 2, 2026
So many wonderful childhood Memories with the Estes' family. Sending so much love and hugs to Mrs. Estes, Amy, Deron and all of their families. A good one lost way too early.
Jeanna Tinney
March 2, 2026
Coach Estes was a great man and a great coach. He will surely be missed!
Deborah Ann Moser
March 2, 2026
To Johns family. From Your cousin, Debbie Estes/Moser. Carl was my dad!! Uncle flash brother! I have memories of us all as very small children. My deepest condolences to all the family.
Donna Armata Sanford
March 2, 2026
My sincere condolences to John Estes' family and loved ones. I was fortunate to have had him as a teacher and as a basketball coach at Clarksburg from grades 6-8. It was obvious that he loved to teach and he loved the game of basketball. His commitment to coaching us to be better players and better people was inspiring. I have many great memories of playing on his teams. I will always remember him fondly.
Dave Nuvallie
March 2, 2026
He was just a great person and gentle man. My three children were taught by him at Clarksburg School. He stayed in touch for years with them. This was the man who I would would chat at Big Y during the holiday season asking why he was standing near the cash registers. John said and I quote, " I buy gift cards and pay for groceries for people that need help."
Josh Morin
March 2, 2026
So sad to hear of Mr. Estes passing. A great man , a great educator and all around great who the world was better because he was a part of it. He would always call me Mussina after an Orioles pitcher. RIP and condolences to his family
Josh Morin
Colleen Martin
March 2, 2026
My heart aches reading this. He was so much fun to teach with, always making me laugh. He volunteered me to coach the junior high school softball team, which totally caught me off guard when Amy and her peers came to my classroom to sign up. What a terrible loss to all who loved him. My heart goes out to all. Rest in peace, my friend.
dennispinsonneault
March 2, 2026
Donna so sorry to hear about John I will see you the 9th and family
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