Edward J. Checkett

Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend, Retired Teacher

Edward Joseph Checkett passed away peacefully on Wednesday August 23, 2023 at home, surrounded by his family.

Born on August 21, 1940 in Brooklyn, NY to Ellen and Chester Checkett. Ed married the love of his life, Gail Checkett, in 1967. They moved to Staten Island in 1971 where they raised their four children. He attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help grammar school, St. Francis Prep High School, St. Francis College & NYU, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. Upon graduating from high school, he entered the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn from 1958 until 1965. After, Ed began a 30-year teaching career with the NYC Board of Ed. He taught at William McKiney Junior High, High School of Telecommunications Arts & Technology & Curtis High School. Upon retirement, Ed taught sign language for 12 years at the Seton Foundation for Learning.

Ed was instrumental in founding the Seton Foundation for Learning along with Bishop Patrick Ahearn. While the Catholic school for children with disabilities began with 5 students in 1986, it now has an enrollment of 125. Ed remained on the Board of Directors throughout his life. During his teaching career, he also arranged for his students to participate in the Special Olympics.

At age 60, Ed began playing the bagpipes with the Staten Island Pipes & Drums. His interests were many including: the Staten Island Ballroom Dance Club, Amateur Magician Society, learning

the ukelele & teaching sign language at the JCC.

His disability later in life defined him as a valiant courageous man who continued to be an inspiration to many. Ed was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church for over 53 years. He was a Eucharist Minister for 40 years, belonged to Holy Name Society & served as a trustee. He was a faith filled man throughout his life and cherished his parish.

Ed is survived by his wife, Gail of 56 years, his sons Edward (Jane), Christopher (Faith), Mark (Julia), daughter, Lynn and 7 grandchildren, Kevin (Maddy), Caitlin, Kyle, Terry, Peter, Ryan & Maxx. His family brought him great joy. Also surviving are his brother, Chet, nieces Jamie (Mike), Julie, lifetime friend, Carol and he was pre-deceased by his nephew, Chet.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at Harmon Funeral Home on Sunday, August 27, 2023 12-3pm & 6-9pm. The funeral mass will be at Blessed Sacrament Church Monday, August 28, 2023 at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations to The Seton Foundation, On Your Mark or Blessed Sacrament Church would be appreciated.

A visitation for Edward will be held Sunday, August 27, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Harmon Funeral Home, 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310. A visitation will occur Sunday, August 27, 2023 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310. A funeral service will occur Monday, August 28, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Blessed Sacrament, 30 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 10310.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.harmonfuneralhome.net for the Checkett family.