Joseph O. Guay

After graduating the salutatorian of his high school class, he earned a bachelor’s degree in French and two master’s degrees: one in foreign languages and one in education.

Joe enjoyed a 40-year career at the high school level which included 7 years at Marianapolis Prep School in Thompson as a French teacher; 19 years at The Morgan School in Clinton as an assistant principal and principal; and 11 years at Stratford High School as an assistant principal and principal. He was a strict disciplinarian and all about his students which pleased them and their parents alike. The students expressed their gratitude by dedicating a yearbook to him in each of these three schools.

Volunteering was most important to Joe. In education he volunteered for the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

At CAS Joe served on numerous committees over a 25-year period. These included two 4-year terms on the CIAC Board of Control which oversees all school sports in Connecticut, and for almost two decades he served as the chairman of the Girls Basketball Committee. The association rewarded his efforts by giving him a CAS citation shortly before he retired. At the time, the CAS citation was the association’s highest honor. When he retired in 2001, the girls basketball tournament was dedicated to him.

At NEASC, the accreditation for all schools in New England and many all over the world, Joe served on 25 accreditation visiting committees while still working, chairing most. After he retired, he traveled the world chairing 34 accreditation visits in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.

In retirement Joe also volunteered a great deal locally. He worked bloodmobiles, delivered Meals on Wheels, and lectured for many years at Saint Margaret’s Church in Madison.

Joe leaves behind Bonnie, his devoted wife of (60) years, his son Joe and his wife Joann, his son Jim and his wife Tiffany, and his grandchildren Joe, Jack, Josh, and River. Their presence and accomplishments were always a source of much joy and great pride in Joe’s life.

Calling hours will be at the Swan Funeral Home in Old Saybrook on October 22nd from 4 to 7 pm. A mass of Christian burial will take place at Saint Margaret’s Church on October 23rd at 11am. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Westbrook.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels at the Old Saybrook Senior Center.