Thomas J. Duggan, Jr., 85, a resident of West Concord since 1964 and a former Bedford High School principal, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024 surrounded by his family. Thomas was the husband of Simonne (LeBlanc) Duggan for over 62 years.
Tom was born in Concord on Sept.10, 1938. He was the son of the late Thomas J. Duggan, Sr. and Elizabeth (O’Toole) Duggan. Raised in Maynard as the second of five children, Tom was proud to carry his father’s name. He loved to share stories of his childhood; growing up with his brothers and sisters.
Tom graduated from Maynard High School in 1956 and attended Fitchburg State Teachers College. In college, Tom held leadership roles in various clubs and he was a member of the FSC Soccer Team. While at Fitchburg, Tom enlisted in the US Army Reserves and served for six years.
Tom and Simonne were married in July 1962. They lived in Newton and later bought their first home in West Concord where they lived for 60 years. Tom took great pride in the home he and Simonne created for their family. He was known for his green lawn and neatly landscaped gardens. He loved his home and neighborhood. He could often be seen leaning on a rake while talking with neighbors. Tom treasured his neighbors. He loved to be outside and would do anything to lend a hand to his Hillside and Old Stow neighborhood family.
Tom began his career pathway as an industrial arts teacher at Concord-Carlisle High School. He coached riflery and football. In 1965, he started the first CCHS Boys’ Soccer Program.
After completing his Master’s Degree at Northeastern, Tom became an administrator at CCHS.
He became the Principal at Bedford High School in 1972 until he retired in 2000. Tom was a longtime member of the Massachusetts Principals Association. Not long after retirement, Tom started working at the Maynard Industrial Park with his brother, Bill.
Tom valued education. He was elected to serve an unprecedented three terms on the Concord-Carlisle School Committee from 1976-1985.
His years as a teacher, coach, and principal were the foundation of many close friendships. He built relationships with his colleagues and students. Former students often sought him out to express gratitude for the difference he made in their lives.
Family was everything to Tom. His many nieces and nephews speak fondly of their favorite memories of their uncle. Tom was known for his wit and “one-liners.” Tom’s children were his world. No matter where he was, he was always there for them.
He was always active in the lives of his children, as evidenced by his involvement in their many activities, coaching Concord and Massachusetts youth soccer teams, and attending their events.
He was an usher at Our Lady Help of Christians Church in West Concord. One of the many childhood memories shared by his children is the trip to the Village Donut Shop after Sunday Mass. That tradition carried on through the years as his grandchildren always knew Grampa’s love of Boston Cream Donuts.
Tom was a role model to his children and grandchildren. A man of faith, he was known for his work ethic, strong handshake, and dedication to his family. More than anything, he loved having everyone around. For Tom and Simonne, time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandson brought them true happiness.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind his children, Linda M. Duggan-Johnson, Col. (Ret.) Thomas J. Duggan III (Amy), Denise M. Duggan, Michael J. Duggan (Jenny), and Anne Marie Duggan (Jeff). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Elizabeth, Tanner (Morgan), Susannah (Ben), Alana, Jack, Olivia, Emily, Erin, and Joseph, and his great-grandson Mylo Thomas Duggan. He was the brother of James Duggan, William Duggan (Jean), and Teresa Nourse (Brian). He was also adored by his many Duggan and LeBlanc nieces, nephews and extended family. Tom was also the godfather of William R. Duggan, Celine Boyle, Deborah McNulty, and Jena LeBlanc. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Lou LeBert and sister-in-law Audrey Duggan.
Family and friends will gather for visiting hours from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, March 18 at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford St., Concord Center. Tom’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19 in St. Bridget’s Church (Ascension Parish), 1 Percival St., Maynard. Burial will follow at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to Thomas J. Duggan Jr. Scholarship Fund, c/o Bedford Community Scholarships, P.O. Box 585, Bedford, MA 01730.
To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence in Tom’s online guestbook, please visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
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