It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Frank Coffey, a beloved educator and cherished member of the Wolfe Island and Kingston communities. Mr. Coffey, who passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025, was a lifelong mentor to many and a legendary figure at Regiopolis-Notre Dame (RND) Catholic High School, where he taught for several decades. His death has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him, and the entire community mourns the loss of a man whose impact stretched far beyond the classroom.
Mr. Coffey was a graduate of RND’s Class of 1970, and his connection to the school only grew deeper over the years as he returned to teach there after completing his own education. His dedication to his students, his commitment to excellence, and his passion for English literature made him a fixture at RND and a guiding light for countless students. Known for his dry wit, gentle humor, and unwavering sense of responsibility, Mr. Coffey’s teaching went beyond academics. He instilled in his students the values of discipline, curiosity, and empathy, fostering an environment where young minds could flourish.
In the classroom, Mr. Coffey was a master teacher who made literature come to life. His deep understanding of the subject was matched only by his ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that students could easily grasp. Whether it was the works of Shakespeare, modern poetry, or classic novels, Mr. Coffey’s lessons resonated with students, many of whom continued to carry his wisdom with them throughout their lives. His dry humor, often delivered with a sly smile, helped to create a bond with his students, who appreciated his wit as much as they respected his knowledge.
Mr. Coffey’s contributions to the school were not confined to his teaching alone. He was a mentor to countless students, offering guidance and advice not only on academic matters but on life itself. Many of his former students have fond memories of how he took the time to speak with them, offering words of encouragement during challenging times. His door was always open, and his support was unwavering. His colleagues at RND regarded him as a colleague, but also as a friend. His presence in the staff room was marked by his insightful contributions, his friendly demeanor, and his ability to bring a sense of calm to any situation.
For those who had the privilege of being taught by Mr. Coffey, his influence did not end when they graduated. Many former students have shared that the lessons they learned from him continue to shape their lives in profound ways. He not only taught them about literature but also about the importance of integrity, hard work, and perseverance. He made them feel that their voices mattered, encouraging them to think critically and to express their ideas confidently.
Mr. Coffey’s passing has been deeply felt by the entire Wolfe Island community, where he and his family were beloved. His wife, Jane, his children, Edward, Anne, Thomas, and Meg, as well as his grandchildren, were the center of his world. He was a devoted father and husband, and his family was his greatest pride. Those who knew him personally remember him as a loving and caring man who cherished his family deeply. His love for Wolfe Island, where he lived for many years, was evident in the way he spoke about it. He often expressed his appreciation for the close-knit nature of the community and how it made him feel at home. Whether he was volunteering at local events or simply enjoying a quiet evening with his family, Mr. Coffey’s presence in the community was a constant source of strength and stability.
The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief, and tributes from former students, colleagues, and friends have flooded social media. One such tribute was shared by Annah Karenina, who posted on Facebook, “Very sad news. My OAC English teacher, Mr. Frank Coffey, passed away. I’m very sorry to the family and the RND community for losing one of the best English teachers, pun intended. I will always remember him with his suit on and looking very English. He would stand outside his classroom talking to the students as they passed by. He was well-liked and respected by the students and everyone. Rest in peace, Mr. Coffey, and thank you for teaching me, and I always loved your dry humor.”
Another tribute was posted by Rebecca Liller, who shared, “This morning, I found out that Shelby Kesler Perrien passed away. Even typing that doesn’t feel real. Though we weren’t cousins by blood, she was still my family, and that never changed, even after my divorce. Memaw and Shelby always welcomed me like nothing had shifted, and I’ve always been grateful for that. We’d gotten closer again these past few years, our kids go to the same school, and life kind of brought us back into each other’s orbit. I never imagined that time would be cut short.”
As the community mourns the loss of this remarkable man, funeral arrangements have been made to honor Mr. Coffey’s life and legacy. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Sacred Heart Church on Wolfe Island. The Mass will be celebrated by Monsignor Lynch at 1:00 p.m., followed by a graveside blessing at the Coffey family plot, located just across from the church. The service will be followed by a reception with light refreshments at Sacred Heart School, located adjacent to the church. Friends, family, and colleagues of Mr. Coffey are all welcome to attend and celebrate his life.
For those traveling from Kingston, it is recommended to take the 12:20 p.m. ferry to Wolfe Island, as the church is a short walk from the ferry dock. The community is encouraged to come together during this difficult time to pay their respects and honor a man who has made such a significant impact on the lives of those who knew him.
Mr. Coffey’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to support educational initiatives in his name. The family hopes that his legacy will live on through the continuation of the work he was so passionate about—educating and inspiring young minds. Through these contributions, his spirit will continue to shine, helping future generations achieve their dreams just as he helped so many others along their journeys.
As the final notes of Mr. Coffey’s life fade, his legacy remains a part of the fabric of the La Porte community and beyond. Those who had the privilege of knowing him, learning from him, and working alongside him will carry forward his lessons, his love for learning, and his unwavering commitment to his family and community. Though he is no longer with us in body, Mr. Coffey’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. He will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Mr. Coffey, your life was a gift to us all, and you will be deeply missed.
