John P. (Jack) Delaney's Obituary
Haverhill, MA- John P. (Jack) Delaney of Haverhill, MA, formally of Salem, NH and Lawrence, MA peacefully passed away on May 17th, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on May 26th, 1941 in Lawrence, MA to the late Thomas and Mary (Lingier) Delaney. He was a proud Lawrencian and he fondly remembered the years he spent growing up in the Water St. neighborhood.
Jack was a graduate of Lawrence High School Class of 1959. During his time at LHS, he was a four-year varsity letterman in football. One of his proudest achievements was being a key player on the 1957 and 1958 back to back undefeated Eastern Massachusetts Class A State Championship teams. The former of which played against Florida State Champion Miami Edison High School in the famed Orange Bowl. He was inducted in the Lawrence High School Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1957 team. He bled Lancer Blue and White.
After high school Jack attended Wentworth Technical Institute in Boston where he received his certificate as a machinist. He worked at various locations as a machinist. Later he worked for the City of Lawrence DPW and then as head groundskeeper at Greater Lawrence Technical School in Andover. He took immense pride in his work and it was often said that his playing fields were among the best in the Merrimack Valley. He retired from Greater Lawrence Tech in 2008.
Other than his family, Jack’s true passion in life was coaching. He coached football for over 40 years at Lawrence High School and later at Greater Lawrence Tech. He coached thousands of kids over the years and left a lasting impression on them all. He was known a tough but caring coach and always got the most out of his players. He was a member of the coaching staff that won the 1998 and the 2007 Division 5 Super Bowl Championships at Greater Lawrence Tech. He also coached baseball and basketball for years throughout the City of Lawrence.
Jack was an avid sports fan and closely followed the Patriots, Red Sox and Celtics, along with UConn Lady Huskies basketball and Notre Dame football. He also took great joy in watching his grandchildren’s sporting events and loved to see them share in his passion for sports while at the same time excelling in them.
Jack was a beloved husband, father, grampy, uncle, coach and friend. He was a hard working man, a quality that he passed on to his two sons. He also was known for his quick wit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Besides his parents, Jack was predeceased by his brothers Francis Delaney, Thomas Delaney and Donald Delaney. He is survived by his wife of 46 years Lynn (Guilmette) Delaney, son John Delaney and his wife Suzanne, son Patrick Delaney and his wife Ashley, grandchildren Shannon, Adriana, Jack, Finn and Kiley. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?