Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments JENNIE @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 4 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Mr Richards was more than capable of seeing me independent of my family, and this is one of the many
enduring lessons I remember from him; when we meet & connect with people, we must understand their
context, but also be able to see them as separate and distinct from that context, as unique individuals who
are not defined by their origins. There were many, many more, but in my work as both a physician and a
legislator, this lesson comes thanks for it
CHARLOTTE @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 4 weeks ago · 0 replies · +2 points
Jack served as a Captain in the USAF before embarking on a distinguished career as a history teacher at
Phillips Academy, Andover. A legendary teacher of Russian and European history, track coach and house
counselor, Jack also served as Dean of Students and Faculty. His passion for Russian History led him to coauthor From Russia to USSR and Beyond in 1983. His consummate grace, skill and humor inspired family,
friends, students and colleagues to think and act with compassion. Outside of Andover, his involvement
with the Groton School Camp began in 1949. Starting as a camp counselor in this program for at-risk boys,
Jack was instrumental, as a Founding Trustee in overseeing the Camps transformation into the Mayhew
Program in 1969. He was a Trustee of this inspirational organization for the remainder of his life. Beyond
his family and Andover, Jacks greatest joy was spending summers on Squam Lake in New Hampshire,
hiking and kayaking and bird watching. His was a life of service, lived to the fullest and joyfully shared. A
Memorial Service will be held on December 7, 2013 at 1:00 PM at the Chapel on the campus of Phillips
Academy
F Chamberlin '67 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 10 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Arnold, Kellogg and I are planning to attend the memorial service on December 7 in the Cochran Chapel.
Is there any chance you can be there? We'd be honored. Where are you? As with so many people on this
site, both Jack and Wendy had a huge impact on all of us -- beacons of warmth and caring in what was a
sometimes cold place in the '60s. I saw Jack and Wendy a little over a year ago in their new house at
Riverwoods in Exeter. They looked great and were as warm and welcoming and interested as ever. It's a
very sad loss for all who knew Jack, and an example of how to try to live our lives.
F Chamberlin '67 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 10 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Cochran Chapel may not be big enough to hold all the people who want ot pay their respects, and offer
condolences to Wendy and the kids, on December 7. There certainly wouldn't be enough room for all the
spirits they touched. I had the privilege of living in Bishop North as a Lower and Will Hall as a senior
proctor with them. Reading this long list of condolences from so many people from so many eras has
brought tears to my eyes.
Zareen Taj Mirza @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 11 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Mr Richards was always a smiling , kind face on campus. He always seemed to have something nice to say.
Mornings were cheerier, afternoons more radiant because of his comments, in passing. I shall miss him. I
send condolences and love to his family and all those who liked, enjoyed and relished his presence. Such a
good thought, to have had such a nice man among us.
Chip Marvin @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 12 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
I still have a number of books on my shelf from the year long cross disciplinary class on Russian history he
taught. It was one of the best classes I ever attended in high school or college. To this day I remember
fondly the classic novels we read by Lermontov, Dostoevsky, Turgenev and the way he laced them through
the historical texts lending meaning and context. I think I will reread "Fathers and Sons" in his memory.
Thanks Jack and Wendy.
Elizabeth SH @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 12 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments Elizabeth Steiner Hayward '81
When I came to Andover as a Lower in 1978, I had mixed feelings that I was in Rabbit Pond, as Mr
Richards and my father had been college classmates and kept in touch over the years. I soon learned that
Mr Richards was more than capable of seeing me independent of my family, and this is one of the many
enduring lessons I remember from him; when we meet & connect with people, we must understand their
context, but also be able to see them as separate and distinct from that context, as unique individuals who
are not defined by their origins. There were many, many more, but in my work as both a physician and a
legislator, this lesson comes back to me almost every day. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs RIchards,
Laura, my classmates Tim & Chris, and CC.
Bruce MacWilliams'77 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 12 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
As cluster president of Rabbit Pond in 1977, I remember well sitting in lengthy discussions and debates
with my cluster dean, Jack Richards. We discussed everything from the mundane feelings of the restless
students getting into relatively innocent trouble, to high profile cases like what to do with John Kennedy, jr
who had gotten into deeper trouble. I fought hard for John, not because he was famous, but because I had
been taught as a freshman the value of being given a second chance in life. Jack Richards, himself, taught
me that when he allowed me to stay at Andover when he knew in my first year, I had been "experimenting"
a bit too much! Thanks Jack, I owe you so much! You taught me how to fly high, but straight.
Ted Bailey @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 12 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
This is for Wendy. : I just watched Kevin Rafferty's "Regular Guys", about the Andover Experience, and
remembered first meeting Jack. I was a senior and trying out the "Hey Prep" hazing and selected Jack,
knowing he was new. A tribute to his gentlemanliness, he said in essence, " I don't think so"! I don't even
know what task I would have given him. I also remember how cordial you and Jack were to Judy and me in
Cambridge. I remember your having us to your apartment in Arlington. I remember your kindness
whenever I drive through Arlington (where my father had grown up). I also remember you both welcoming
alum's back to reunions. Thanks to you and Jack for positively influencing me in my adult life. Best wishes,
Ted Bailey PA'58, Harvard '62.
Jim Nute @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 15 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
On behalf of Jack's Mayhew family (www.mayhew.org)...All of us send our condolences and very warmest
and best thoughts and wishes to Wendy and the family.
Jack has been "Mayhew" since the very beginning, always showing the rest of us how to apply our best to
making this experience ever better for the great boys we are fortunate enough to serve - together. Suddenly
(and Jack's passing has felt so very sudden), he's not here. And we're all still feeling numb about the fact
that we'll not again be welcomed by his warm handshake and sparkling eyes, or benefit from his "Onward!"
leadership.
And, yet, this is Jack we're talking about. He actually is "here," in all of us. It's not at all hard to imagine
him exhorting at this very moment, "Carry on!" So with a tear in the eye and your can-do example giving
us strength, that, Mr. Richards, is exactly what we're going to do. Thank you for showing us how!
Parny Hagerman @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 15 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
The entire Hagerman clan extends all our good wishes to the entire Richards family. Our memories of
vacations in Sanibel were all about the tennis matches with Wendy and Jack and the kids. They were
consummate school people, models for us all. Deepest sympathies to all.
Parny Hagerman
Head of School
Oldfields School
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments John J-H Kim '83 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 15 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
My deepest condolences to the Richards family. Mr. and Mrs. Richards were my cluster deans for four
years and were always kind and nurturing. After visiting my daughter who is now a student at PA, I spotted
Mr. and Mrs. Richards walking by the Andover Inn. I pulled over to introduce them to my wife and so that
I could tell them both how much they had helped me while I was a student, far away from home in
California. He was a wonderful and caring educator.
John J-H Kim '83
Tom Kidde '68 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 15 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
Jack was my house master my first year at P.A. and helped me through the transition and, coming from
California, adapting to what was for me a very foreign environment. His guidance got me through the first
months and stayed me my entire time. I will always remember his friendly, and sometimes stern, advice
and, of course, the denizens of Bishop North trundling downstairs to watch "Batman" on TV! I took
thought Jack was ageless and his family is in my thoughts.
Stephen Porter @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Hi Sam--The Boston Globe is writing an obit about Jack, and would like to talk to a former student-athlete
of his. If you'd be interested in doing that, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks.
Andy Ogilvie '66 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
I was also in his dorm as a lower and again as a proctor in my senior year and enjoyed every minute. He
was a great guy and mentor. My mother kept the letters he wrote when the grades came out and they
foresaw a lot. My condolences to Wendy and the family.
Afshin Pedram '80 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +2
points
Choked as I am, I would like to share noble Jack's living words, extracted from a handwritten letter dated
March 23, 1999, following exactly 16 years to the day of Reagan's SDI announcement: "I would of course
be delighted to chat with you about any subject when an opportune moment presents itself...I try to stay up
to date on the international situation, and in fact just recently led a discussion here in Naples on the current
scene in the Caspian Basin area. And if all goes well I'll be going on a research trip to some of the former
Soviet states of Central Asia...developing a curriculum in Islamic Cultural Studies, with cooperation from
the Aga Khan's educational services network. Very exciting! I miss the people on Andover Hill."
Rick Platt '65 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Jack was Bishop Hall's housemaster in Fall '62, and he separately wrote my parents and MacNelly's that our
room was "like Grand Central Station." Our parents certainly had something to say to us about his
comment. As a result of his understated and effective mentoring, it finally dawned on the two of us that we
were at Andover to study, not just to have a good time. It was an important lesson, we didn't want to
disappoint a guy we admired so much, and we finally buckled down. Forever grateful!
Peter Schandorff @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Tim -- I concur with your sentiments about Jack and Wendy. I followed you as Jack's proctor in Bishop -and he warned me when I got the job that you would be very difficult to succeed. He was a great
guy....Peter Schandorff '64
Peter Schandorff @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Peter Schandorff '64 Jack helped me to love the learning history provides, and he was a critical factor in my choosing a college
and finding a vocation. There wasn't a day during my four decades teaching that I didn't think of Jack.
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments Notes from his class are bound and shelved within reach of my desk. Earlier today I had begun planning
my upcoming trip for my fiftieth reunion, selecting a flight to Manchester, intending to visit Jack and
Wendy on the way to the gathering.
The incoming news from the Academy has acted as a punch in the gut. I miss him already and will always
cherish memories of him and how he helped shape my life. Thank you, Jack.
"We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded with a sleep."
Peter
patrick chang @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
As one of the first A Better Chance students in 1964 I still remember the encouragement and understanding
Mr Richards had about the placement of students of color on campus. He was a man of vision and held fast
to all things possible. My sympathies to the family.
Patrick Chang '68
afshinpedram @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
My deepest condolence to family and friends! The monumental legacy of Mr. John Richards II and his
amazing wife and Andover children goes back to 34 years ago when I had the honor and privilege of
meeting them as a one-year senior. Back then Jack & Wendy lived in my dream house, Harriet Beecher
Stowe. They represented a cluster that no longer exists, Rabbit Pond. As dorm rep to cluster meetings and
cluster minute taker I took great joy in recording the practice of democracy through school committee
agenda. As track coach it was no surprise to learn through relentless drills that he truly earned his legacy as
captain of the Crimson track team. In European History he introduced his class students to George F.
Kennan's "X" article, the foremost architect of the Cold War and the very Barbara Tuchman's "Guns of
August" book that JFK was reading to calm his nerves at the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Had God
granted him just a little bit more time I bet my life that he would have devoured Eric Schlosser's
"Command And Control" for he completes what Barbara Chase launched: Non sibi sed aliis.
John Buchanan '68 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
What sad and shocking news. I guess I thought Mr. Richards was beyond aging, and in my memory he will
remain so. Jack and Wendy shaped the Andover experience for both me and my roommate Henry Hart as
our surrogate family, first in Bishop North, and then senior year in Stowe House. The debt of gratitude we
owe them is beyond words. My condolences to all the Richards family.
Terry Robinson '79 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
My condolences to the Richards family. While my relationship was more with Mrs. Richards, I always
knew that whatever greatness he had was as a direct result of having her by his side. He always gave me the
same look that Mr. Eccles and Mr. Edmonds used to give me - it was a look that said "what is it with you
and my wife?" :) - the three of them offered motherly consultation when I needed it most and their
husbands went along with it! Thank you Mr. Richards. The family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Tony Obst @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Mr. Richards was my JV cross country coach during my upper year. I remember him running up and down
the line during practice giving words of encouragement and urging us on. He had a way of connecting with
you and understanding you, and saying just the right thing at the right time.
Great teacher, great coach, exemplary person--stuff that makes Andover the great school that it is! My
condolences to the Richards family. Tony Obst '63
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments Mary(Bixby)Lamb @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Mary(Bixby)Lamb, Abbot '50
My husband and I are residents at River Woods, a retirement community in Exeter, NH, where Jack and
Wendy have been living. Although all of us here knew Jack was failing, it was hard to believe it. What a
loss of a wonderful,talented man. I was very privileged to have taken a Russian history course with Jack. It
was a small group of about ten, allowing for many lively, informative discussions. What a teacher!! I may
be the only former Abbot/Andover student to take a course from Jack after he retired.
Peter Vrooman @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Mr. Richards taught me Russian with a passion, which inspired me to develop a college exchange program
with the University of Kiev.
Francis Lombardi @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Never his student, but rather had the distinct privilege of being a class mate at Harvard and a compatriot in
Air Force flight training , followed by the warm feeling that Jack and Wendy were at Andover watching
over our five children and three nephews who attended P.A. Jack was a true gentleman , a person most
would love to have the joy of an association. We will miss our annual F;orida dinners ,but hope to continue
our contact with Wendy. May God bless the Richards family and wish them fond memories of a wonderful
man.
Francis Lombrdi '50
James Sullivan '97 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1
points
I had Mr. Richards twice--for Modern European History in my lower year (because of which Palmer and
Colton will always have a place in my heart) and the Russian Experience, in my senior year. He was a
fantastic and inspiring teacher. He could be traditional pedagogically and a tough disciplinarian, which was
actually what initially made me love him, but I learned later how innovative his courses were. He
introduced literature and art and made the historical experience much deeper. And he was very kind and
generous as a person. He was always encouraging without letting you hold a low standard for yourself. I
truly regard him as a the closest I ever want to have for role model. We were all lucky to have him.
Sincerest condolences to his family, whom I never knew, but envy for their wonderful father/husband.
R. McNealy'68 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Wow. A giant of an individual who replaced a giant - G. G. Benedict. The classic Secondary School Andover Faculty member. Teacher, Coach, House Counselor, Administrator. Always pleasant, yet firm in
his beliefs and convictions. When these people leave the scene, you always wonder who will fill these
shoes.
Tim Clark '81 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
I am very, very sad to hear the news. Mr. Richards (yes I still can't use his first name) was a role model for
me, a father away from home. I am sure the whole family knows what an amazing impact he had on so
many of us young, impressionable kids. While not wild at the time about how little I could get away with in
his history class, I do appreciate his letting me ride his moped (without him knowing about it) into town as
needed! God bless Mr. Richards and all the Richards at this difficult time.
JT Troup @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Dean Richards will always have a special place in the Andover community. When I first heard from mutual
friends of his illness early this summer, I contacted Laura and express my desire that our community do
something to acknowledge his impact on all of us during his life. Unfortunately, due to his illness this was
not possible. With his sad demise, I call on the Andover community to tangibly remember this great man.
Given his love of the kids, my idea is a scholarship fund in his name. I would love any ideas you may have.
Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] with your thoughts. I believe due to his special presence in
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments all of our reunions, the Class of 1974 should dedicate our upcoming reunion to Dean Richards. He was
truly a special man and deserving of our memory and acknowledgement.
hotc @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
I took a year of European History with him in 1976-77, while I was at Andover High School. He gave me a
love of history, taught me how to write an effective essay, and was an insightful and erudite instructor. I
owe him a great deal, and never had a chance to tell him how it came out.
He will be missed, I am certain. Godspeed.
Walter H. Hunt
Andover High School '77, Bowdoin College '81
sgswanson @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
Sorry to hear this news. Suffice it to say: I appreciated Jack; he was a deciding vote to keep me in school
following an infraction in the 70's. He understood my situation, and was very kind as a result.
Rob Middlebrook '76 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Along with several classmates I spent scores of senior year evenings sitting around the kitchen table at
Stowe House just shooting the breeze with Jack and Wendy. They treated us like family then, and also in
the years that followed graduation, always eager to hear about the paths our lives took. They gave us some
of our fondest and most enduring PA memories. My condolences to Wendy and the family.
Abby Shuman '84 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Jack Richards was one of my most beloved teacher/mentors at PA. He exuded a love for his chosen
subjects, for the experience of inquiry and questioning the purpose of the educational endeavor, for sports
and coaching, and a love of all things adolescent. In my senior year in his yearlong Russian history and
Literature class, he challenged me to be more verbal about all of the thoughts swirling around in my head,
and gave me the space to think and articulate myself in a way that has been forever meaningful to me. He
was a kind, generous, funny, brilliant, loving man and I, and so many generations of PA students, faculty
and staff are blessed to have known him. With love to Wendy, Laura, Chris, Tim and CeCe and deepest
gratitude to Jock himself.
Dananstey @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
What sad news. Jack was one of the best teachers I ever had. He was one of only two teachers at Andover
who took interest in what I did after graduating. I still have some of my books from his history class on my
bookshelf. He was a very kind man and a talented teacher. My condolences to his family.
Dan Anstey '98
Harvey Kelsey '67 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1
points
I am deeply saddened to hear of Jack's death. It is not an exaggeration to say that for me, he was my
Andover experience. I kept in contact with him over the years and last emailed him on June 5, a mere 4
months ago. I want to share with you all a portion what I said to him at that time:
June 5, 2013
Jack,
…..Of course, writing to you cannot help but bring back memories of adolescence. Indeed (on re-reading
this email), this email is a celebration of survival of adolescence and your positive role therein.
Corny as it may sound, doing track, meeting you and meeting Simeon Hyde were three outcomes that
turned a not-promising experience around so I stayed at PA, graduated and moved on with my life.
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments Andover was a world to which I never grew accustomed; but hey, I guess that was good in the long run.
After awhile -- whether OK with the whole deal or not --doing track and having a few mentors made a
difference. You and Simeon Hyde were mentors to me; although I realize that, to you guys, I must have
been one of many adolescent space cases.
The bottom line of this email is that most of my happy moments at PA really come down to doing track and
having the sense (correctly or incorrectly) that you and Simeon Hyde were there if ever I needed assurance
that I would come out the other end (that is, graduation) OK. The track connection was an assurance, and I
prevailed upon Simeon Hyde for a willing ear several times before he left the end of my 11th grade year. I
regret that I never contacted Simeon when he was alive to say such things. And although I do not expect
you to krump any time soon, I (again) say thanks.
Best regards,
- Harvey
Tony Maranto '75 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Mr. Richards was always an ambassador for the satisfaction that comes from learning. Along with other
giants at Andover, he demonstrated that teaching is one of the most honorable (and loveable) professions.
Jim Shannon '69 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Jack Richards was not just a legendary teacher and coach but a towering presence on the Andover campus
for generations. He was a classy guy and a great role model. Twenty-five years afer my graduation Jack
interviewd our daughter when she applied. He was just as warm and welcoming to her as he had been to me
a quarter of a century earlier. Andover is lucky to have had Jack as a leading member of its community for
such a long time.
Emily Kalkstein '94 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
All my love to Wendy and my fellow fac brats.
Tony Pietrafesa '74 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
When I think of male role models in my life, I think of my dad and I think of Jack Richards. He stood out
among the many great men at PA. His look, his comportment, his obvious devotion to family and school,
were all examples of what a gentleman should be.
Having lost my dad in August, my sympathies lie with the Richards family and Laura, my classmate.
Lucky we both are for having great fathers in our lives for so long.
Tim Bingham @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 1 reply · 0 points
Jack was the head of Bishop House in 1962-3, In my senior year, I was proctor there. He was the most
impresssive member of the faculty at Andover tome. His warmth and th4e warmth of Wendy really made a
difference tome. Tim Bingham ' 63
Fr Francisco Nahoe @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Jack Richards taught us European History in a rigorous seminar, quite unlike anything I had ever
experienced previously, that met at eight o'clock in the morning. As a new Upper in 1978, it was my very
first class at Phillips Academy. That single course, perhaps more than any other at Andover, taught me both
the demands and the rewards of being a PA student. Moreover, I still possess not only the very books we
discussed in Mr Richard's class (Young Man Luther, Worldly Philosophers, Palmer & Colton), but no small
degree of the European history he taught as well.
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments + May the souls of the faithful departed, especially Jack Richards, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.
Bill Pruden '72 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 16 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
I am someone who went into Independent School teaching because of my experience at Andover and no
one better exemplified the triple threat (in his case the quadruple threat) that characterized faculty members
of that time than Jack Richards. I knew and respected "Mr. Richards" from afar in hs role as Dean of
Students (the challenges of which I far better appreciate after over 30 years in this profession), had the
opportunity to get to know him over 4 years as a member of those Interschols winning track teams of the
early '70s, and then had the great good fortune to take his Russian History class in my Senior Year. He was
superb in the classroom. Indeed, he was an outstanding educator, a teacher in every sense of the word. My
heart goes out to his family.
Dan Cunningham @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1
points
Jack was one of the very best teachers I ever had. The two history courses I took with him (and History 4
with Wayne Fredericks) inspired me to major in history in college. I remember the first class in Jack's
European history course. He wrote on the board a quote from Henry Ford "History is bunk". We spent the
class discussing why bother to study history at all. Jack ws also a true gentleman and excellent role model.
Deep condolences to the Richards family.
Dan Cunningham '67
Sam Butler @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 1 reply · 0 points
Enormous.
Douglas Greeff @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 2 replies · 0 points
Great response. A big loss...... Doug Greeff '74
Hobey Birmingham @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Jack represented the best of Andover. His first year at PA, he was my lower housemaster with 3 others in
Tilton House. Jack and Wendy, together with two very young girls, welcomed us into their family with
kindness and warmth. We may have been a tough introduction to the school, but I will never forget how
much help he was to me going through what was a very difficult year. Throughout my life, he was always a
beacon reminding me what Andover stood for and what it meant to have gone there. A great loss for us all.
My deepest sympathies and condolence to Wendy and his entire family. Hobey Birmingham '62
Bill Bostian @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 1 reply · +2 points
I was always sure he was onto most of the shenanigans perpetrated in and around Williams Hall back in the
mid 60's. But he showed great judgment in letting the harmless ones go by and stepping in when
appropriate. A Great Role Model and a Truly Wonderful Man!!
Roger Ritvo '63 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Mr. Richards used a green pen to grade our papers. Both the color and his provocative questions helped
ignite a passion for learning. His legacy endures through the lives he and his family touched.
Bill Ullman @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Richards family. To me, Jack Richards and his family
represented the very best of Andover. I was so fortunate to have had him as a teacher during Junior year. I
am truly saddened by this loss but what an incredible legacy of love, students, scholarship and
contributions to PA he leaves behind.
Bill Ullman '81
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments John Burgess @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
I first met Jack as an 8th grader on my campus tour and he was instrumental in helping me attend PA. I
went on to run indoor and outdoor track for him for four years as a member of a few of his championship
teams from 1978-81. He was a superb coach, a mentor, an advisor and in later years a friend. Chris and Tim
were my classmates and I wish them, their families and the other Richard family members my deepest
condolences.
To honour Jack at my 25th reunion a financial aid scholarship was set up in his name. Anyone who would
like to further contribute to this fund please feel free to do so by contacting the Alumni office.
May he rest in peace!
John Burgess
Class of 1981
Sam Butler @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 3 replies · 0 points
I'm so glad to have seen him last spring at the Harvard/Yale vs Oxford/Cambridge track meet in
Cambridge. He looked so well. We talked about attending the A/E track meet a few weeks later, but the
weather was terrible. A wonderful teacher, both on the track and in the classroom. And everyone who ever
lived in Stowe House knows how Jack and Wendy treated us like part of their wonderful family. Wendy,
Laura, Chris, Tim, and CeCe, we are all thinking of you.
Oh, and the track team won the Interschols in 1970, too.
Jared Jackson @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
Wendy interviewed me and I ran for Jack for three years. He and Wendy hosted us at their place in New
Hampshire during the Dartmouth Relays. The kindest and warmest. Favorite moment....when Jud Jacobs,
'89, was running at Exeter and was elbowed repeatedly. After the elbower wasn't penalized, Jack burst out,
"well this is a very shoddy operation" and threw down his clipboard. We knew he was pretty angry. He
never uttered bad words like shoddy!
Christian Parker @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1
points
He was one of the warmest, most inspiring, and most naturally gifted of all of the many fine teachers I had
at Andover, and I think about him often in my own teaching. His passion for Russian history helped set me
on a very important path. Very sad news, and condolences to all of his nearest and dearest.
Femi Obi @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Sicerest condolensces. Loved him. My Dad away from home.
Peter Smith '64 @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +3 points
As I anticipate my 50th reunion, I can say without hesitation that Jack (and Wendy) were the differencemakers for me at Andover and in the years after I left. A wonderful man and a couple for the ages.
Lisa Boyd @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +2 points
I'm so sorry to hear this news! Condolences to the whole Richards family and especially my classmate,
Catherine. Your father was an Andover treasure.
Gloria Cruz @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 17 weeks ago · 0 replies · +1 points
I want to say to his family that i'm sorry for their loss. He is in a better place with god, that he will watch
over them from up their with god. God bless you and your family.
Jack Richards Andover Obituary Comments Peter Fernberger @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 8 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Lucky us to know and share in the life of such a generous man and family. What excuse did I have to hang
out in Stowe House, I was neither his student or dorm charge. I was simply welcome. And we would sit in
the living room and play records and just - be. He even lent us the family yellow canoe to paddle in Rabbit
Pond. Who does that?
What can I say? to Wendy and the kids? of which I became one. Thanks isn't anywhere near enough.
How about, "see you Saturday".
Love,
Peter Fernberger '73
Bill Cahill @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 9 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
He was my history teacher, dorm guy and track coach, too. God love him and Wendy, too. All you track
and field dudes, say a special prayer for him. Not a bad teacher, either. Shucks......
trip anderson @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 10 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
How sad to learn of such an inspiring mentor's passing. I never had the honor of being his student in class,
but was certainly his charge as a senior in Stowe House and avid participant on the track teams of '68, '69,
'70, and '71.
And now as an art hIstorian on staff at Worcester Art Museum, relying daily on a command of world
history through fifty-one centuries I owe much to the wisdom I learned from Mr Richards, as mentor, as
coach, as life-guide.
Thank you Mr Richards,
--trip anderson, PA '71
T. Kushwaha @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 10 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Mr. Richards helped me learn to fly -- his coaching on high jump and long jump has lasted a lifetime and
continues to help me navigate the future...
Tamara Glumicich Kushwaha '81
George McLellan @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 10 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0
points
Mr. Richard's and his wife were my house parents at Williams hall my freshman year and made my
transition to boarding school from Venezuela much easier. Jack managed to keep me out of trouble for the
most part and was well liked by all of us that spent the year under his guidance. I am sure his passing will
leave a big hole in the Andover family and I am glad his last days were spent in the presence of his family,
something not all are able to day. Kudos to a life well lived and people served by this great man and
teacher. You will be missed
George McLellan PA 70
Fred Johnson @ Phillips Academy - An ... - Phillips Academy - Fac... 13 weeks ago · 0 replies · 0 points
Very, very sorry to hear of Mr. Richards' departure from us in the here and now.
We may have given him his first track inteschol championship in back '71, but as Dean of Students we
likely also caused him more that our fair share of grey hairs too.
Though an unremarkable student in his class my upper year, I learned more from his European History
course than perhaps any other at Andover, and to this day marvel at how one can understand American
History without a similar backgrounder.
Fred Johnson '71