Joseph B. Hickey

Joseph B. Hickey obituary

Joseph B. Hickey

Joseph Hickey Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Richardson Funeral Home - Leominster from Jul. 14 to Jul. 15, 2025.

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Joseph Bernard Hickey, affectionately known as Joe to his friends and family, lived a life that was as impactful as it was inspiring. Born on April 22nd, 1941, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, Joe was a beacon of light and wisdom in the lives of everyone he touched. On July 13th, 2025, in Leominster, Massachusetts, surrounded by the love of his family, Joe passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, education, and community.

Joe was the beloved husband of Judy Parent Hickey, and the proud father of Dean Hickey, Kelly Marciano, and BethAnn Couture. His role as a grandfather to Nicholas, Sadie, Shannon, Liam, Conor, and Alex, and as a great-grandfather to Harper, Cooper, and Ava, was one of his greatest joys. His unconditional love and guidance shaped their lives profoundly. He was predeceased by his parents Patrick & Nancy Hickey, his brother Peter Hickey and son Jason Hickey.

A graduate of Saint Bernard's High School and Fitchburg State College, Joe dedicated his career to nurturing young minds as a Special Education Teacher at Ayer High School for 35 years. His passion for sports led him to serve as the Head Boys Basketball Coach at Ayer High School and later as the Head Girls Basketball Coach at Leominster High School. He also served as Offensive Coordinator for Leominster and Matignon High Schools. His coaching journey culminated as the Head Football Coach at his alma mater, Saint Bernard's High School. His dedication to excellence was recognized with his induction into the Hall of Fame of Ayer High School, Leominster High School, and Saint Bernard's High School – a testament to his remarkable career.

Joe's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and decisions with compassion and integrity. His interests in golfing, fishing, and playing pool were more than hobbies; they were avenues through which he connected with people, sharing laughter and wisdom in equal measure. The words that best describe Joe are intelligent, gentle, and passionate. He was curious about history, and extremely well-read. His gentle nature made him a confidant and friend to many, and his passion for his work and hobbies was infectious. Joe loved what he did, and it showed in every aspect of his life, from his family to his career, to his pastimes.

Joe's story is not one of an end, but a continuing legacy through the lives of those he taught, coached, and loved. His memory will serve as an inspiration to all to live with purpose, to lead with heart, and to cherish every moment with those we hold dear. Though he has left the physical world, the lessons he imparted and the love he shared will continue to resonate for generations to come. Joseph Bernard Hickey: a remarkable man, a life well-lived, and a legacy that will endure.

The Man In the Glass - Joe's favorite quote....

"When you get what you want in your struggle for self and the world makes you a king for the day, just go to the mirror and look at yourself and see what the man has to say,

For it isn't your father or mother or wife whose judgement upon you must pass,

the fellow whose verdict counts most in your life is the one staring back from the glass.

You may be like Jack Horner and chisel a plum and think you are a wonderful guy but the man in the glass says you're only a bum if you can't look him straight in the eye.

He's the fellow to please- never mind all the rest, for he's with you clear to the end,

and you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test if the man in the glass is your friend.

You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years and get pats on the back as you pass, but your final reward will be heartache and tears if you've cheated the man in the glass."

Calling hours will be held from 4-7 PM on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Richardson Funeral Home, 106 West Street, Leominster, MA. The family requests that friends and family omit flowers, but are grateful for any gifts made to the St. Bernard's High School athletic program in Joe's memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph B. Hickey, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Joseph Hickey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 25, 2025

Cyndi Butler posted to the memorial.

July 19, 2025

Dianna posted to the memorial.

July 18, 2025

Donald posted to the memorial.

Cyndi Butler

July 25, 2025

My heart goes out to Judy and his family. May he rest peacefully in heaven Just remember, He's not gone, He's just away. Until you meet again.

Dianna

July 19, 2025

May you rest in holy heavenly peace. I was only 12 years old when I watched him coach the Ayer Basketball team with General Holman, Randy Rock and others. I looked up to you then, because I somehow knew you were a man of integrity, utmost character, and virtru. I am thankful that from a distance I knew you.

Donald

July 18, 2025

One of my favorite teachers and loved pulling the birthday partys we as a a class pulled on him on his birthday he has no idea it was coming pulled at pond st and at fort devens elementary and still shocked him that his class could do it and all the other stuff we pulled
My favorite teacher and enjoyed the summer with the kids of his family at hilltop school

Amy-Beth Palazzi Craven

July 17, 2025

Coach Hickey,

Simply the best! Patient, passionate and wise. He coached me in basketball but was such a great mentor. When I went through one of the toughest times in my life junior year of high school, it was he who consoled me and guided me toward my faith for answers. I´ll never forget what he did for me! I couldn´t have done it without his kindness and guidance. I am sorry I couldn´t make the wake but he will always be in my heart. Until we meet again coach, rest easy.

Dean, Kelly and Beth-Ann I love you all. His kindness shines through each and every one of you. I´m so sorry for your loss.

Amy-Beth Palazzi Craven

Lucille Kilpatrick-DaCosta

July 17, 2025

Thank you Mr. Hickey one of the best coaches and caring teacher at Ayer High School. Send all of our love from the Kilpatrick family.. We will miss you sir. Rest in Gods hands.

Linda Coke

July 17, 2025

Please accept my condolences on behalf of the Coke family from Ayer. Mr. Hickey coached my brothers Dave and Brian at AHS where they went to the state championship. He was definitely a push behind my brother Brian getting a full ride basketball scholarship to ULowell and then on to play professional basketball in Ireland for three years. Coach Hickey was a very good guy! Prayers to you all.

Linda Coke

Cynthia Crickett-Thiers

July 17, 2025

My sincere condolences to the Hickey Family. He was truly an amazing teacher who I had as my Special Education teacher from elementary school through high school. He was such an inspiring person and a great mentor!

Stephen D Aube

July 17, 2025

Beth,Dean, and Kelly
I am so sorry to hear about your dad´s passing. You are all in my prayers may he rest in peace.
Steve Aube

paul massoni Vero Beach Fl

July 16, 2025

Hello Judy.. so Sorry to hear about Joe, He was a Great Guy. My Thoughts and prayers will be with You and Your Family.

Andrew Foster

July 16, 2025

A wonderful man, who I had the pleasure of both playing for and working with. May his memory be a blessing to his family and friends.

Mike Norton

July 15, 2025

Thank you so much, Coach Hickey, for the love and mentorship you gave me on the STB football team. A life well lived indeed! Mike Norton STB `93

Sam Chery

July 15, 2025

My heart goes out to the Hickey family! I first met Coach when I was 10 years old and he let me be a part of the football program as a waterboy. He didn´t have to, but he could tell how much I wanted to be close to the game and the players. I was lucky enough to go on and play and then coach with Coach Hickey. I learned so much about how to handle life from him. He will be missed, but fondly remembered. He´ll forever be my Coach! With love, Sam Chery and family.

Brian Tata

July 15, 2025

Dean Kelly Judy and family, My condolences. Joe was a great sports of everything Leominster and St Bernard´s

David Gerwe

July 15, 2025

Dear Dean and extended Hickey family members: I am so sorry for your loss and to hear the news of Joe's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences, and may his memory be a blessing. Sincerely, David Gerwe

James Burlton

July 15, 2025

Joe I will miss you very much I am letting you know you will never be forgotten. Love always. Your cousin Jim Burlton

Pete Matarese

July 15, 2025

Sorry to hear about Joe. A friend over 30 yrs
Playing pool at the Elks and then at Senior Center.

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Sign Joseph Hickey's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 25, 2025

Cyndi Butler posted to the memorial.

July 19, 2025

Dianna posted to the memorial.

July 18, 2025

Donald posted to the memorial.