John Flackett

In Loving Memory of John Michael Flackett

Professor Emeritus and Former Associate Dean, Boston College Law School

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Michael Flackett, Professor Emeritus and former Associate Dean of Boston College Law School. John passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, surrounded by his loving family, anchored by his devoted wife of twenty-six years, Joanne.

Born on October 27, 1935, in Penkhull, Staffordshire, England, John grew up during World War II, an experience that profoundly shaped his compassion for those on society's fringes. His professional life was dedicated to championing the underrepresented, whether by sleeping in prisons in solidarity with inmates or advocating for civil rights in the American South.

John was educated at St. John's College, Cambridge University, and came to the United States on a Fulbright Scholarship to study law at the University of Pennsylvania, where he met his first wife, Gail. Together, they raised their children Jennifer, Antony, and their adopted daughter, Rachel.

John's academic career spanned several institutions, including the University of British Columbia, the University of Ontario, and the University of Florida, before settling at Boston College. His tenure there was marked by dedication to student advocacy and the co-piloting of the "International and Comparative Law Program" with King's College, London.

Beyond his professional achievements, John had a zest for life, deepened by his marriage to Joanne. Together, they traveled, explored nature, and shared a love for the outdoors. John was an avid birdwatcher, tennis enthusiast, and gifted cook. His greatest joy, however, was his family.

John is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children Jennifer, Antony, Rachel, and Charles; his first wife, Gail; his son-in-law, Mark; his daughters-in-law, Sabrina and Kerrilyn; and his five grandchildren, Franny, Finn, Dashiell, Clio, and Ronan.

A memorial will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Chapel, Boston College Law School, Newton, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the NAACP, Boston College Law School, National Immigration Law Center, or Nature Conservancy.