Heartbreak in Fall River: 35-Year-Old School Department Worker and Theater Volunteer Dies

The Fall River community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a vibrant 35-year-old who worked for the City of Fall River School Department and was deeply involved in the Little Theatre of Fall River. Their unexpected passing this week has left family, friends, coworkers, and theatergoers in shock, struggling to make sense of the loss of someone so young, so passionate, and so full of life.

A Life of Dedication, On and Off the Stage

This was someone who wore many hats—and wore them all with pride. At work, they were a steady presence in the school system, known for their calm demeanor, compassion, and genuine love for helping students thrive. Whether it was supporting students in the classroom or lending a hand behind the scenes, they brought warmth and energy that made others feel seen and supported.

When the school day ended, their second love took the spotlight—literally. They were a familiar face at the Little Theatre of Fall River, where they had been involved in numerous productions over the years. From building sets and helping with costumes to performing onstage, they were the kind of person who showed up early, stayed late, and always found a way to lift others up.

“It didn’t matter if you were a lead actor or someone brand new to the stage—they made you feel like you mattered,” said one longtime theater member, pausing to wipe away tears. “Their joy was infectious.”

The News No One Expected

The announcement of their sudden passing came as a devastating shock earlier this week. Details surrounding the cause have not been made public, out of respect for the family’s privacy, but the impact has rippled throughout the city. Social media quickly filled with heartfelt messages, photos, and memories from those who knew them—from students whose lives they helped shape, to fellow performers who called them family.

Fall River Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Tracy Curley released a statement expressing her condolences:
“This is a heartbreaking loss. Their spirit, dedication, and kindness made a lasting impression on everyone they met. They touched so many lives, and our school community won’t be the same without them.”

A Community Comes Together

In the days since the news broke, there’s been an outpouring of love and support. School counselors have been made available to staff and students in need of someone to talk to, and plans are already underway for a community vigil in their honor.

The Little Theatre will also be hosting a special memorial tribute in the coming weeks. Friends say it’s what they would have wanted—a gathering not just to grieve, but to celebrate the things they loved most: music, connection, and community.

“They were the glue in so many ways,” one friend shared. “The theater won’t be the same without their laughter backstage. But we’ll carry their light with us, always.”

A Legacy That Lives On

In just 35 years, they managed to leave behind a powerful legacy—one built not on grand gestures, but on everyday kindness, quiet leadership, and a love for both children and the arts.

It’s hard to imagine Fall River’s school halls or the theater stage without them. But it’s even harder to imagine how many lives would have been different had they never walked into them.

As one former student posted in a touching tribute:
“You made me believe in myself when no one else did. I hope you knew how much you mattered.”

And they did matter. To so many.