The Wakefield High School community is mourning the loss of English teacher Bob O'Donnell this week. Principal Chris Willmore sent the note below to parents, teachers, and students on Monday.

Did you know Mr. O'Donnell? Share your memories in the comments.

Dear Wakefield Community,

It is with great sadness that I share with you the news that our recently retired and beloved English teacher, Bob O'Donnell, passed away following a battle with cancer. Mr. O'D was much loved and respected and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

I met with the staff this morning to tell them about the news. I also asked teachers to share the information with their classes.  We have counselors available all day today to meet with students. We have also designated spaces for groups to meet, talk, and share.

As we learn more information about services, I will pass that information along.

In my comments to the staff this morning, I noted that this has been a week of highs and lows for our community. This week we have celebrated with our basketball teams as they participated in the regional tournament; we took pride in our fans receiving the "Best Sportsmanship Award;" we enjoyed seeing and reconnecting with alumni and other community members who returned to support our Warriors. And now we come together in this sad time.

A hallmark of a strong community is the ability to celebrate the highs together and to join together in times of difficulty. This week, we are doing both- because we are a strong community; we are Wakefield.

Thank you for your support as we move through the difficult days ahead.

Chris Willmore