- December 5, 2017
- Newtonville, Massachusetts
of Ruth's Passing
- In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Framingham State University, in care of Development and Alumni Relations, 100 State Street, PO Box 9101, Framingham, MA 01701-9101. In the memo line please write "In memory of Ruth Concannon."
Arrangements made by
Eaton & Mackay Funeral Home
465 Centre St
Newton,
MA
02458
Get Directions
Profile of Eaton & Mackay Funeral Home
View Phone NumberTel. (617) 244-2034
Email Us
Receive Obituary Notifications by Email
Cancel
Contact Me Inquiry Form
Please complete the fields below and one of our funeral service professionals will be in touch with you shortly.
Memories & Candles
Previous
“("Ronnie" is the name by which I was known in those days.)I am one of the many fortunate persons to be taught in first grade by Ms. Concannon. I have...Read More »
”
1 of 18 | Posted by: Ronnie Alpert - Student
“She was truly one of a kind. I student taught for her in 1984. She taught me so many things that have guided me through my life and helped me become...Read More »
”
2 of 18 | Posted by: Regina(Betteker) Appleby - FL
“I am so saddened to here this news. Ms Concannon(as I will always know her) was my first grade teacher many years ago at Mason-Rice. She was my...Read More »
”
3 of 18 | Posted by: Kathleen Murphy - Newton, MA
“Ruth is my first cousin and one of the brightest ladies I've known . She loved her student's so much and her memory of them and all their names was...Read More »
”
4 of 18 | Posted by: ann Roderick - Newton, MA
“Deepest condolences to all the family and friends. She was my favorite elementary teacher, and I always remembered her, even after fifty-five years.
”
5 of 18 | Posted by: Tom Kovar - Florence, MA
“57 years ago I set foot in Classroom 4 in Mason Rice as if it were yesterday and I was the beneficiary of the greatest teacher I ever had. I remember...Read More »
”
6 of 18 | Posted by: Kevin O'Malley - Groton, MA
“Even close to six decades later, I still remember vividly Room 4 at the Mason-Rice School and my wonderful teacher, Ruth Concannon. I still have my...Read More »
”
7 of 18 | Posted by: Patty Summers Lank - Newton, MA
“My condolences to the family. I had Mrs. Concannon for for 1st grade in 1977- she made a remarkable impression on me and my parents- before moving...Read More »
”
8 of 18 | Posted by: Molly (Counihan) Rodriguez - RI
“There are no words to describe Ruth's extraordinary gifts as a teacher and friend. They don't make them like that anymore! She was the best.
”
9 of 18 | Posted by: Marcia Karp
“Miss Concamnon was my daughters first grade teacher at Mason Rice. What a wonderful experience. Ruth was everything a teacher should be. May her...Read More »
”
10 of 18 | Posted by: A friend
“I student taught under Miss Concannon in the early 1970's. She was a lovely woman who taught me compassion for my future students. Not only was she...Read More »
”
11 of 18 | Posted by: lynn shriber - peabody, MA
“I student taught under Ruth in the early 1970's. I learned so much from her. She was a lovely woman, a caring teacher and a great mentor. Years...Read More »
”
12 of 18 | Posted by: Lynn Shriber - Peabody, MA
“Where to begin... I haven't seen this woman in 50 years. However, she influenced every part of my being. I have so many memories of her. One of my...Read More »
”
13 of 18 | Posted by: Suzi Veaner Schnars - Austin, TX
“To the Concannon Family:Please accept my deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and prayers.Sincerely,Michael Sullivan
”
14 of 18 | Posted by: Michael Sullivan - Cambridge, MA
“Miss Concannon was my favorite teacher of all time. My whole family loved her!!My son Zach got to go to the Mason Rice school in 1st grade and she...Read More »
”
15 of 18 | Posted by: Robert Veaner - Millis, MA
“You've added your light to the sum of light, Miss Concannon. For this, we are extremely greatful. Godspeed to Heaven. ❤
”
16 of 18 | Posted by: Christopher Arthur Leacu - MA
“Ruth was a master teacher with a quick wit and a storehouse of wisdom. One could always count on her to tell where the best deals were for clothing,...Read More »
”
17 of 18 | Posted by: Ken Roberts - Newton, MA - friend
“My deepest sympathies to all of the Concannon family. May Ruth now rest peacefully.
”
18 of 18 | Posted by: Marie Connolly - Falmouth, MA
Ruth Ann Concannon, 89, longtime resident of Newtonville, MA passed away on December 5, 2017 in Weston, MA. She was born in Newton on July 23,1928 the daughter of Thomas and Anne (Connolly) Concannon. She graduated from Newton High School in 1946, and went on to achieve a degree from Framingham State University, 1950, with additional degrees from Boston University and Boston State College.
She dedicated her life to teaching in Newton for 42 years. Her first job was at the Rice school which was later combined with the Mason School in 1959 and housed in a new building. That year she moved into classroom number four at the newly named Mason-Rice Elementary School and that is where she remained until her retirement in 1992. That year she was interviewed by a Boston Globe Reporter who wrote, "to her every child is a wunderkind." Speaking of the children she taught Ruth told the reporter, "they know I like them, that's why they trust me. I've always had fun, and I've never been bored." She had a incredible talent for remembering every child's name whom she taught, even decades later.
Ruth's love of children extended to her beloved nieces, great nieces, and great nephews whom she loved to spend time with. Her favorite activities including reading, trips to her summer home in Pocasset, and shopping excursions with her nieces. In her retirement she also spent time volunteering at the Newton Free Library.
Her surviving members include her brothers Thomas B. Concannon Jr., William Concannon (wife Mimi), and her nieces Kate Concannon, Megan McGrath, Sara DeSimone, Maureen McDonald, and Sheila Butze. Her two sisters Nancy (Anne) Concannon, and Joan Concannon predeceased her.
A wake will be held at Eaton & Mackay Funeral Home on December 10 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 11 at 10:30 AM in Our Lady Help of Christians Newton.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Framingham State University, in care of Development and Alumni Relations, 100 State Street, PO Box 9101, Framingham, MA 01701-9101. In the memo line please write "In memory of Ruth Concannon."
Upcoming Funeral Services
Click here to be notified when a service is added, or check back for updated information.
Visitation
December 10, 2017
3:00 PM
to 6:00 PM
Eaton & Mackay Funeral Home
465 Centre Street
Newton, MA 02458
(617) 244-2034
Mass of Christian Burial
December 11, 2017
10:30 AM
Our Lady Help of Christians
573 Washington St.
Newton, MA 02458
(617) 527-7560
Interment
Newton Cemetery
791 Walnut Street
Newton, MA 02459
(617) 332-0047
The beautiful and interactive Eternal Tribute tells Ruth's life story the way it deserves to be told in words, pictures and video.
Create an online memorial to tell that story for generations to come, creating a permanent place for family and friends to honor the memory of your loved one.
Select An Online Memorial Product:
$99.00
Eternal Tribute
- Online multimedia memorial with unlimited pictures, videos, music and more
- Elegant, immersive format honors your loved one
- Customizable themes, backgrounds and music give it that personal touch
- Interactive Guest Book lets everyone share their memories and provide support
Processing...
Upgrade
$79.00
Military Tribute
- Enjoy all the features of the Eternal Tribute
- Preserve the memory and sacrifices of a loved one’s national service
- Choose from five elegant military branch themes
- Highlight military service details
- Unlimited photos and military record information
Processing...
Upgrade
("Ronnie" is the name by which I was known in those days.)
I am one of the many fortunate persons to be taught in first grade by Ms. Concannon. I have no doubt that her love and dedication influenced my positive attitude and enjoyment of school ever since. I could not know it then at the age of 6, but in retrospect, I must have been truly blessed to have her as a teacher.
Posted by: Ronnie Alpert - Student Feb 26, 2019
She was truly one of a kind. I student taught for her in 1984. She taught me so many things that have guided me through my life and helped me become a compassionate and dedicated teacher. She taught me to love them first, always listen to what they had to say and then teach them what they are eager to learn. It was evident that she loved every student and took a personal interest in their success. She laughed with
She was truly one of a kind. I student taught for her in 1984. She taught me so many things that have guided me through my life and helped me become a compassionate and dedicated teacher. She taught me to love them first, always listen to what they had to say and then teach them what they are eager to learn. It was evident that she loved every student and took a personal interest in their success. She laughed with them everyday and encouraged then to try their best. It was obvious that she loved her job and all of the students in her classroom. We kept in touch with letters and Christmas cards every year since I walked into her classroom 33 years ago. She inspired me to be a great teacher because every kid deserves a teacher who would motivate them to learn, while taking the time to love them! I work with new teachers every year and share her wisdom with them. I hope to carry on her legacy by cultivating a new generation of teachers that would make her proud. I will truely miss her quick wit, generous spirit and loving heart.
Posted by: Regina(Betteker) Appleby - North Palm Beach, FL - friend May 30, 2018
I am so saddened to here this news. Ms Concannon(as I will always know her) was my first grade teacher many years ago at Mason-Rice. She was my favorite and had left a lifelong impression on me. She will be greatly missed. Rest easy Ms Concannon.
Posted by: Kathleen Murphy - Newton, MA Jan 16, 2018
Ruth is my first cousin and one of the brightest ladies I've known . She loved her student's so much and her memory of them and all their names was incredible! I listened to her stories about their accomplishments as she was so proud of them and it brought a smile to her lovely face. .The Aunts" as Ruth, Nancy and Joan were lovingly called were the epitome of true ladies and great teachers to thousands of children . Ruth
Ruth is my first cousin and one of the brightest ladies I've known . She loved her student's so much and her memory of them and all their names was incredible! I listened to her stories about their accomplishments as she was so proud of them and it brought a smile to her lovely face. .The Aunts" as Ruth, Nancy and Joan were lovingly called were the epitome of true ladies and great teachers to thousands of children . Ruth has joined her sisters in eternal peace and love. Her brothers,sisters and nieces were the core of her life and she would do anything for them . She was a great cook also and many a wonderful dinner was served at the Holidays with the whole family in their beautiful Victorian home .As Christmas draws near I never forget her Christmas gift bags and still have a flashlight !
Posted by: ann Roderick - Newton, MA - Family Dec 10, 2017
Deepest condolences to all the family and friends. She was my favorite elementary teacher, and I always remembered her, even after fifty-five years.
Posted by: Tom Kovar - Florence, MA Dec 10, 2017
57 years ago I set foot in Classroom 4 in Mason Rice as if it were yesterday and I was the beneficiary of the greatest teacher I ever had. I remember vividly her interest in me despite being a rambunctious 7 year old-always
( mistakenly) thinking I was her favorite. Thank you Ms Concannon for your selfless gift to the kids of Newton Ctr.
Posted by: Kevin O'Malley - Groton, MA Dec 09, 2017
Even close to six decades later, I still remember vividly Room 4 at the Mason-Rice School and my wonderful teacher, Ruth Concannon. I still have my report cards from her - written with such personal and deep concern for me and each and every student. Even at that young age, I recognized her peerless dedication to her craft and the kids she cared for so deeply. You truly made a difference, Ms. Concannon. Bravo to you and I am sure you bring a bright light to heaven!
Posted by: Patty Summers Lank - Newton, MA Dec 09, 2017
My condolences to the family. I had Mrs. Concannon for for 1st grade in 1977- she made a remarkable impression on me and my parents- before moving away, I went back to visit a few times - she always remembered me. I've since assessed my own children's teachers based on my experience with her.. she left a lasting legacy and positively impacted so many people.
Posted by: Molly (Counihan) Rodriguez - South Kingstown, RI Dec 09, 2017
There are no words to describe Ruth's extraordinary gifts as a teacher and friend. They don't make them like that anymore! She was the best.
Posted by: Marcia Karp Dec 09, 2017
Miss Concamnon was my daughters first grade teacher at Mason Rice. What a wonderful experience. Ruth was everything a teacher should be. May her soul Rest In Peace.
Shelley Abrahams
Posted by: A friend Dec 09, 2017