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Marty Boldin posted a condolence
Saturday, March 15, 2025
My youngest child just turned 29 and spent the weekend watching LOTR movies with a close friend. I reminded him that when I was in middle school my teachers (Mr. Flynn, Mr. McGuire, and Ms. Brady) all posed for LOTR characters in art done by the Hildebrandt Brothers. I also caddied with Mr. Flynn's father at the Knoll Country Club. As I went to look for the artwork, I came upon notice of Mr. Flynn's passing. I hope these words find their way to his family. As much as any miracle in my life, Mr. Flynn's teaching saved me. He was not the first or the last, but he was one of the most memorable teachers in my life. When I was in his class he took us to see "2001 - A Space Odyssey" in Middle School... in Middle School!!! He taught me, among many other things, the importance of being real. In the classroom, I always believed he believed in what he taught and in me (when others didn't). I am so grateful to have known him and to have him show up as an angel in my life when he did. RIP Mr. Flynn, 'thank you' for the life lessons that endure half a century later.
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Gena Harakal posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 7, 2023
Mr. Flynn was a dynamic teacher back in the day - mid 70s. He was cool and interested in each and every student. I have many fond memories of him as a teacher. My biggest remembrance is the vast vocabulary he taught me. Many of those words work their way into my daily speech and I never fail to remember from whence they came. Teachers are so instrumental in shaping and growing student's lives. I'm very grateful to have had Mr. Flynn be a part of my education. Eternal rest grant unto Billy, o Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in Peace.
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Sue Saggese posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
I taught with Billy my first year back to teaching. He was so kind and welcoming to me to the new world of computers. We were at the beginning of a huge change in technology. We had an AOL account that would allow us some time, using a modem, to go online. The most exciting day was when Bill was home sick and I took over his class. He called in and we "chatted" on the computer with his class. The students were amazed. Billy even said to a student, "Hey (I don't remember who), get rid of your gum!" There was no "Facetime", he just knew the student was chewing gum, which was true!
Students loved him. He had such a calm demeanor and so easy to get along with. But his true loves were his girls, Jen, Emma, and Grace. He was devoted to them.
Jen, Grace, and Emma...treasure your memories with that special man who will stay in your hearts forever.
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Joanne Grimes Marriott posted a condolence
Monday, September 25, 2023
An early memory.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel grammar school, late 1950s, Sister Ann Frances’ 7th grade classroom. Out of nowhere, a new kid—a boy—interesting disruption in our ordinary and carefully circumscribed world. Billy Flynn has arrived—smiling, cute (7th grade girls’ evaluation), kind of short, but that can change—and we have a new friend. In no time at all, he had been one of us forever, and somehow all these years later, it still seems as though the world always had, and always would have, Billy Flynn.
September 1960
Off to Morris Catholic High School—scared, excited, the Boonton kids enlarge their world. Billy Flynn, one of “the boys,” still smiling, still the kind friend willing to listen and help smooth over some of the rough spots, still a constant in our rapidly changing world.
One more memory.
In 1967 “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are Dead” opened in New York and I had a pair of tickets. Nearly overwhelmed by our own coolness and sophistication, Billy and I went to the show and were thrilled that our familiarity with “Hamlet” allowed us to enjoy Stoppard’s work. Look out, world—English teachers coming.
My sincere condolences to Billy’s family; he made the world a better place. I hope for all of you that the joy of your many treasured memories will help you to heal from your loss. In your hearts you will always have Billy Flynn.
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Patrick McElroy posted a condolence
Sunday, September 24, 2023
For those of us lucky enough to spend any time at CMS meant crossing paths with Bill. Always with his warm smile and quick laugh. His talent for knowing when and how to dial down the drama was a gift I saw on many occasions. To this day I am grateful for his perspective both professional and personal. Bill’s time here, although too short, was a blessing and the world is a better place for him having shared himself with us.
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Denise Scatton posted a condolence
Sunday, September 24, 2023
It was an honor to have taught, talked and learn from Billy. Teaching has lost a true inspiration. The world has lost a kind and decent man.
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Kathleen Jobbins uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, September 24, 2023
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Bill,
We are remembering your fine cooking, soups, cocktails, fine company, bagpipes and holiday, laughs and joy. Thank you for your inspiration and support to our girls and family. We love you always and forever!
J
Julie Boyer posted a condolence
Sunday, September 24, 2023
In reflection upon the life of William, his warm-hearted character vividly endures. An epitome of compassion and generosity, his work at Central Middle School showcased his thoughtful nature as he passionately embraced the task of guiding learners, particularly those with unique needs, towards understanding technology. His affable personality has left a lasting imprint on all who were fortunate enough to know him. As he restfully departs from our midst, his gentle spirit remains forever entwined with our memories.
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Lisa posted a condolence
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Mr Flynn goes down in my personal history as one of the most meaningful teachers of my life. He was tough and demanded the best from us. He introduced me to some amazing literature. I speak of him often. Still.
Bless his family during this difficult time. One of a kind. A real Teacher.
Lisa Lauther Nickerson.
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charlie maraziti posted a condolence
Saturday, September 23, 2023
I have so many wonderful memories of our times together during our high school years and beyond. Billy and I shared the adventures of being First Mates on the charter boat Helen G and enjoying the wonders of the Ocean and Manasquan. I loved his smiles and laughter. He is sailing a higher Ocean now. I miss you Billy!
Charlie
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ALISON SPATOLA posted a condolence
Saturday, September 23, 2023
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was certainly one of the happiest teachers at Central Middle School. I first met Bill in the early 1980s, and was struck by his always present smile and positive attitude. But that smile became even brighter when he met Jennifer. I know his family meant everything to him, and brought him the greatest joy. My thoughts are with Jenn, Grace, and Emma at this very difficult time.
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Karen Gaynor posted a condolence
Friday, September 22, 2023
I met Bill when I began teaching at Central in 1977. So many descriptions of him come to mind- kind, caring, even-tempered, happy, free-spirited, excellent in his craft, somewhat like a leprechaun, lover of life, his family, literature. He will be missed. Everyone at Central smiled when his name was said.
My deepest condolences to Jenn, Emma, Grace and his entire family. We ALL were raised up by our camaraderie with Bill.
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Jean Fletcher posted a condolence
Thursday, September 21, 2023
Billy was always smiling and happy when I’d see him in the hall when we were teachers at Central Middle School. So sorry to hear of his passing,
J
John McNeil posted a condolence
Thursday, September 21, 2023
Billy was an original good guy. I always enjoyed talking to him. My deepest heartfelt condolences to Jenn and his daughters. You have many great memories to help you get through these hard times.
Rest in peace Billy.
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Juan Cruz uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
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Going to miss you, Billy! You were like a real life Mr. Miyagi for me. Thank you for being a wonderful friend, and cheerleader since day 1 at CMS. I will always look back on our jam sessions with a big smile on my face. Our conversations about music, teaching, life, and family will be fondly remembered. May you Rest in Peace, hermano.
My deepest condolences to Jen, Grace, Emma, and the entire Flynn Family.
Sincerely,
Juan
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The family of William Joseph Flynn Jr. uploaded a photo
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
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The family of William Joseph Flynn Jr. uploaded a photo
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
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The family of William Joseph Flynn Jr. uploaded a photo
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
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