John Moran Obituary, Pawtucket RI Death: With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of John E. Moran of Pawtucket, Rhode Island—an exceptional educator, devoted husband, loyal friend, and a cornerstone of his community. After a courageous and unwavering battle with cancer, John passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
John’s journey through life was marked by kindness, leadership, and an unshakable passion for service. He was a beacon of light in every room he entered, a man who made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, love, community, and unwavering belief in doing what was right—even when it wasn’t easy. Born and raised in Pawtucket, John graduated from William E. Tolman High School, where his love for athletics, media, and education began to flourish.
He went on to study Video and Radio Production at New England Institute of Technology, and later, he pursued Athletic Administration at Concordia University, Nebraska, charting a course that would lead to decades of service in education, coaching, and community building. John was best known for his remarkable work at Seekonk High School, where he served as Athletic Director and Educator. In this role, John was more than an administrator—he was a mentor, a guide, and a champion for young people. His dedication to student-athletes was unmatched.
He believed in the power of sports to shape character, teach resilience, and bring people together. Through his leadership, countless students discovered not just their athletic potential, but their capacity for greatness in life. But John’s influence extended well beyond the walls of the school. Over the last 15 years, he became an irreplaceable part of the Boundary Kitchen & Bar community. Hosting weekly cornhole leagues, tournaments, and charitable fundraisers, John turned game nights into family gatherings and simple events into unforgettable moments.
The team at Boundary shared, “We’ve shared a venture with this man every week that can never be duplicated or described in words… John will never be forgotten.” In honor of his tireless dedication, Boundary has renamed their main function space “The John Moran Room”—a permanent tribute to the joy, spirit, and unity he brought to every event. Whether it was a casual game night or a major fundraiser, John had a way of creating an atmosphere where everyone felt welcome and important. He didn’t just host events; he built a community.
John was a foundational force in the Ocean State Cornhole world. Players, friends, and fellow organizers knew him as a man of principle—fiercely fair, deeply encouraging, and full of heart. Joseph Regan, a close friend and cornhole player, beautifully captured John’s spirit: “Anyone who knew John or got to be in his presence knew that John was the realest and most fun person to be around… He always backed his decisions up with confidence, and to make him change his mind was highly unlikely. That’s one of the many reasons we all loved John so much.”
John had a rare gift for balancing fun and structure, joy and discipline. He ran one of the most respected and well-loved cornhole leagues in the region, not just because of the game, but because of the way he made people feel. He welcomed beginners, encouraged the shy, challenged the seasoned, and brought out the best in everyone he encountered. His commitment to fair play, thoughtful rules, and a good laugh made every night memorable.
To those closest to him, John was a steadfast friend and family man. His relationship with his beloved wife, Lisa DeAndrade-Bessette Moran, was one of profound love, support, and partnership. Together, they faced the highs and lows of life, especially the trials of his illness, with courage and unity. Lisa stood by John’s side through every treatment, every moment of pain, and every small victory. Their love was, and continues to be, a shining example of devotion.
John was also known for his deep humility. Despite all his accomplishments—both personal and professional—he never sought the spotlight. He was more interested in lifting others up than standing in front. He had a quiet but magnetic strength. You always knew where he stood, and you always knew he stood with you. To his students, he was a coach, a role model, and often a second father. To his colleagues, he was a leader and a friend. To his friends, he was the glue that held the group together. And to his family, he was everything.
As we grieve his loss, we find solace in the countless lives he touched. We carry forward his teachings, his laughter, and his memory in every corner of our lives—from classrooms and gyms to game nights and quiet conversations. John’s death leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy fills that space with love, strength, and purpose. His courage in the face of illness, his dedication to his students and community, and his unwavering authenticity are lessons we’ll carry with us forever.
