John R. Hennessey

John R. "Jack" Hennessey, 92, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A devoted scholar, teacher, and lifelong learner, Jack lived a life rich in intellect, culture, and compassion.

Born on December 13, 1933, in Brockton, Massachusetts, Jack was the son of John Russel Hennessey and Catherine Hennessey. His early years in Brockton laid the foundation for a life marked by academic excellence and deep curiosity about the world.

Jack pursued his undergraduate studies at the College of the Holy Cross, graduating with the class of 1955. He went on to earn a master’s degree from Boston College and later completed his doctorate at Georgetown University. His passion for education led him to a fulfilling career as a professor at Salem State University, where he taught for 22 years. Through his teaching and mentorship, Jack left an indelible mark on generations of students.

A man of wide-ranging interests and boundless enthusiasm for learning, Jack was a voracious reader who began each day with the New York Times—cover to cover. He had a deep appreciation for opera and classical music, with Mozart holding a special place in his heart. His love of history and politics fueled countless conversations with friends and colleagues alike.

Jack’s adventurous spirit took him across Europe, the former Soviet Union, Egypt, Morocco, and beyond. Yet no place brought him more joy than Cape Cod. He cherished time spent at his beloved home in Wellfleet—his favorite place in the world—where he also served as a ranger on the Cape Cod National Seashore. Whether walking along the beach or enjoying dinner with his partner Bruce Kennaway, Jack found peace, friendship, and happiness by the sea, where he had countless friends and neighbors.

A lifelong practicing Catholic, Jack attended Mass at St. Cecilia's Church in Boston. His faith was an enduring part of his identity and guided him throughout his life.

Jack is survived by Bruce Kennaway, his partner of 42 years. Their enduring bond was one of love and mutual respect—a testament to the life they built together over four decades. Jack is also survived by his beloved Kennaway, Jilani, and Martish families.

Those who knew Jack remember him as kind-hearted, considerate, intelligent, and deeply lovable. Conversations with him were always engaging—ranging from religion to politics to stories about Cape Cod—and left others feeling enriched by his insight and warmth.

Family and friends are respectfully invited attend visitation Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 9:00-10:00 AM at Saint Peter the Apostle Church, 11 Prince St, Provincetown, MA 02657. A Funeral Mass to celebrate his life will immediately follow at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Wellfleet, MA.