Edward Joseph McNabb Jr.

He was the son of the late Edward J. McNabb, Sr. and Mary (Kenealy) McNabb, and the brother of Denise Reilly and her late husband Richard of North Reading, and the late Patricia Burt of Chelmsford.

Edward was the devoted husband of the late Cynthia S. McNabb. Together, they raised three children: Amy Gendrolis and her husband Bill of the North End; Moira O’Connell and her husband Kevin of West Newton; and Edward J. McNabb III and his wife Jessica of Scituate. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Ali, Mikey, Finn, Teddy, Cillian, Rory, Cassidy, and Dylan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Edward was a gifted athlete, excelling in track and field. He graduated from Somerville High School in 1964, where he was known as “Dash” for his speed in the 50 and 100-meter sprints, ranking among the top high school athletes in Massachusetts. He went on to Boston State College, graduating in 1969 while continuing to compete in track. In 1968, Edward competed for a spot on the U.S. Olympic track and field team, a testament to his dedication and exceptional talent.

After earning his degree, Edward enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served with distinction. He completed his active duty in 1970 and continued his service in the U.S. Army National Reserve until his honorable discharge in 1974. Coming from an esteemed lineage of servicemen, Edward deeply valued his time in the Army and remained a steadfast supporter of veterans.

Edward's commitment to education and community was unwavering. He earned a master’s degree in special education from the University of Massachusetts at Boston in 1992. From 1970 to 2006, Edward was a devoted member of the Boston Teachers Union, spending the majority of his career as a highly respected U.S. History teacher at English High School in Boston—his father's alma mater. Edward was particularly passionate about World War II history and was known for his extensive knowledge of Boston’s history, which earned him the affectionate nickname “Mr. Boston.”

Edward and Cynthia also created cherished memories at their summer home in Scituate, MA, a place often referred to as the "Irish Riviera." There, they spent many happy summers with family, building a legacy of love and connection to the town that will be passed down through generations.

After growing up in Somerville, Edward settled in the North End in 1971, where his family has proudly lived in the same home for five generations. Edward's deep love for his community, family, and country will be remembered always. His intellect, passion for history, and generous spirit, combined with his kindness and humor, left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

A visitation for Edward will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, from 4 pm to 8 pm in J.S. Waterman Langone Chapel, 580 Commercial St, Boston,. COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING ATTENDANTS AT THE FRONT DOOR.

To join the procession to the church, please arrive at the funeral home by 9 am A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 10 am in St. Leonard Church, 320 Hanover Street, Boston,. Edward will be laid to rest in St. Mary Cemetery, 44 Meeting House Lane, Scituate, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Edward’s memory to Disabled American Veterans at dav.org.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered their support during this difficult time. Edward will be deeply missed but forever remain in their hearts.