John E. Moran, a high school athletic director and longtime teacher, had been battling cancer and passed away at 62 on Friday, April 11, 2025.
He was the beloved husband of Lisa A. (DeAndrade) Moran and left the world peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.
John is a dedicated educator and sports professional with a lifelong passion for athletics and media. He was the standout running back for the football team at Tolman High School, where he graduated in 1980.
He earned a video and radio production degree from the New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) in Warwick and a Master’s in athletic administration from Concordia University, Illinois.
John worked for more than 40 years. He developed his media and communication abilities for 20 years at the Providence Journal before going into teaching.
For 25 years, he has served as a teacher and athletic director for Seekonk Public Schools, positively influencing countless students and athletes.
His leadership, experience, and commitment to sports and education continue to leave a lasting impact. Seekonk High School has counselors available for any student needing support.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of John E. Moran, a cherished member of our community, a beloved athletic director, and an educator for 25 years here in Seekonk.
Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by his legacy.
May you find peace and joy in remembering the good times with him. I encourage each of us to take a moment this weekend to reflect on the life and service of John Moran as someone who truly loved Seekonk Schools.
John E. Moran’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
John Edward Moran Sr., the son of Patricia J. Moran and David J. Moran, Jr., was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, in 1963.
He was a pillar of local sports and education, and his untimely passing saddens the Seekonk community.
John dedicated his life to shaping young athletes and fostering a culture of teamwork, integrity, and passion.
For over 20 years, he served as a media specialist at the high school and impacted through his involvement in youth sports programs.
More than just an educator and coach, he was a mentor, advocate, and guiding force in the lives of countless students and athletes.
His unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds in the classroom and field left an indelible mark on the community.
With a rare blend of passion, patience, and encouragement, he empowered students to grow into confident and compassionate individuals. He also taught them to be learners and competitors.
Whether teaching behind a camera, offering wisdom on the sidelines, or sharing a laugh in the hallway, his presence was a source of light and inspiration.
Seekonk athletics flourished under his guidance, earning respect across the state.
His legacy lives on in the generations of students he uplifted, the lives he shaped, and the countless memories he created as a devoted educator, coach, and friend.
I want to send my condolences to the Moran family on the passing of John E. Moran. Mr. Moran and I first met when I was in 6th grade at Seekonk Middle School and then years later, we crossed paths again my senior year at Seekonk High school.
Jeff Snyder
If there was anyone who was very good at his job of teaching young minds the benefits of television production, it was Mr. Moran. From the constant bloopers of trying to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at Seekonk Middle School to all those video skits at Seekonk High School, thanks for the memories and the laughs, Mr. Moran.
Heaven’s gained a very good television wizard today…RIP Mr. Moran
Furthermore, John was a devoted family man. He married Lisa DeAndrade-Bessette Moran and had four children. He was lucky enough to coach his three sons.
Lisa grew up with her sister, Lori DeAndrade, and her brother, Rich DeAndrade. She began her new job at Windstream in 2000.
His mother, Patricia; his wife, Lisa; his four children, Matthew D. Moran, John E. Moran, Jr., and his wife, Alyssa, Dr. Jacob P. Moran and his wife, Ella and Nicole Bessette; and his two granddaughters, Avery and Ivy, survive him.
He shared a close bond with his three siblings, David Moran III and his partner, Lynn; Julie Shea and her husband, Phil; and Marla Culpan and her husband, Chris. He was close to his nieces and nephews.
On the other hand, his father, David, preceded him in death.
Mr. Moran left such a positive mark on my future and so many of my peers. Praying so hard for his family, loved ones and friends during this time.
Sara Piche
The Moran family announced his funeral on Tuesday at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Teresa Church.
Instead of flowers, his family requested memorial donations to Special Olympics Rhode Island to honor his legacy.
John E. Moran’s impact on Seekonk will endure through the lives he shaped and the spirit of perseverance he instilled. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Rest In Peace, Coach John E. Moran
In Case You Didn’t Know
- John E. Moran owned Ocean State Cornhole and started one of the first cornhole leagues in the region.
- His two adoring granddaughters called him Sunshine.
