In a statement released by the school, it was shared with profound sadness: “Today, our hearts are extremely heavy as we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved friend, leader, and community pillar, Felicia McCrary.” Her death has left an indelible mark on the school, where she had spent over two decades shaping the lives of countless students and colleagues.
Felicia McCrary’s journey in education spanned more than 26 years, during which she became a fixture at The Galloway School. Known for her warmth, compassion, and tireless dedication to the community, she made an enduring impact on the lives of those around her. As an educator, leader, and advocate for students, Felicia’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. Her ability to connect with students, families, and faculty members alike was a testament to her character and commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity, empathy, and academic growth.
Felicia’s career at Galloway was built on a foundation of genuine care for each individual she worked with. She viewed every interaction as an opportunity to encourage growth, empower others, and instill confidence in the potential of everyone she encountered. Whether working with students, guiding teachers, or supporting families, Felicia’s leadership was marked by her ability to inspire and motivate with compassion, humor, and grace.
In her role as Upper Learning Principal, Felicia led with vision and purpose, always prioritizing the well-being of students and creating a safe, welcoming space where young minds could thrive. Her ability to see the best in people—whether colleagues, students, or parents—was one of her most endearing qualities. She made every individual feel seen, valued, and heard, and in doing so, created a deeply supportive community at The Galloway School.
Felicia’s leadership style was characterized by her authenticity and deep empathy. She believed in the power of education to transform lives, and she worked tirelessly to make Galloway a place where all students could find their voice and flourish. Colleagues often described her as a natural leader who brought people together, fostering collaboration and building relationships across the school community.
Her remarkable ability to lead with grace was accompanied by her infectious sense of humor, which could always bring a smile to anyone in the room. Felicia’s unique approach to leadership was rooted in her belief that education was not just about academics, but about developing the whole person. She understood that each student was unique and required individualized attention and care in order to grow and succeed. She worked to create an environment where each student could thrive intellectually, socially, and emotionally.
Felicia’s impact wasn’t confined to her leadership at the school. She believed deeply in the importance of developing strong partnerships with families, recognizing that the support of parents and guardians was essential to a child’s success. She always made time to listen to concerns, offer advice, and provide encouragement, offering a steady hand to families navigating the challenges of raising children in today’s world.
Felicia’s passion for education began long before she became the Upper Learning Principal at Galloway. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wake Forest University, where she developed a deep understanding of human development and behavior. It was this background that informed her approach to education—one that emphasized the importance of emotional and psychological well-being in addition to academic achievement.
She went on to earn a Master of Arts in Education, equipping her with the knowledge and tools needed to make a profound difference in the lives of students. Felicia’s educational philosophy was grounded in the belief that every child had the potential to succeed, and she worked tirelessly to help students realize that potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. Her background in psychology gave her a unique insight into the needs of young learners, and she used that insight to foster an environment where students felt safe, supported, and empowered to reach their goals.
Throughout her career, Felicia maintained an unwavering commitment to her own personal growth as an educator. She was a lifelong learner, constantly seeking ways to improve her practice and better serve the needs of her students and colleagues. This dedication to her own development as a professional was a reflection of her belief in the power of continuous learning and growth, and it inspired those around her to approach their own work with the same dedication and passion.
Felicia McCrary’s legacy will live on in the countless students whose lives she touched and the faculty and staff who had the privilege of working alongside her. She will be remembered not only for her leadership and expertise but also for the profound impact she had on those who knew her personally. Her ability to connect with people, build relationships, and create a sense of belonging was a hallmark of her life’s work.
Those who knew Felicia often spoke of her warm heart, her sense of humor, and her ability to make others feel like they mattered. She was a true community leader, and her loss will be felt deeply by everyone who had the honor of working with her. Her passion for education, her love of learning, and her commitment to her students and colleagues set a standard for what it means to be a truly effective and compassionate leader.
As the Galloway community processes this unimaginable loss, they are left to reflect on the profound influence that Felicia had in shaping the lives of so many. Her work, her kindness, and her dedication to creating a place where every individual could succeed will continue to inspire and guide those who remain.
Felicia McCrary’s family and the Galloway community have been rocked by her sudden passing. Details regarding funeral arrangements and an official obituary will be shared at a later time, as her loved ones take the necessary steps to honor her life and legacy. In the meantime, the school and the broader community are coming together to offer their condolences, share stories of her impact, and support her family as they navigate this heartbreaking time.
The Galloway School has asked that people who wish to honor Felicia’s memory do so by continuing to embody the values she held dear—compassion, kindness, and a commitment to education. As the community remembers Felicia McCrary, it will undoubtedly carry forward her legacy of care and leadership, ensuring that her influence lives on for years to come.
