Thomas F. Behan – Comeau Funeral Home

Haverhill – Thomas F. Behan, a devoted family man and popular school principal, passed away on April 22, 2020 at Holy Family Hospital in Methuen from Covid-19. Tom was survived by his loving wife Patricia of 58 years. He was 80 years old.

The loving son of the late Francis and Alice Behan, he was born in Haverhill on September 11, 1939, and was a life-long resident of the city.He graduated from Haverhill High School in 1957 where he served as class president for four years. After high school, he did a post-grad year at Phillips Academy in Andover. He received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Springfield College, a Master of Education from Indiana University, and a Master of School Administration from the University of New Hampshire.Mr. Behan began his career teaching science at Hunking School before becoming a school principal. Known as a supportive, caring, and dedicated leader, who would often play kickball and toss the football around with students at recess, he was principal of Hunking, St. James, Silver Hill and Moody schools in Haverhill. After retiring from the Haverhill School System, he was principal of Meritor Academy in North Andover. He also served on the Haverhill School Committee for four years. He was a passionate educator who made a difference in the lives of many children. Sports were always a big part of his life; he was a member of the 1955 HHS State Championship football team. He went on to coach football at Haverhill High School and coached his sons for many years playing baseball at St. Joseph’s Little League. Later in life, he enjoyed golfing and fishing with his grandchildren and attending their many sporting events. He was always their #1 Fan. Known by his grandchildren as GT, he was always one to make them smile and laugh. His creation of the Wasabi Club and trips to the Super Buffet will be happy memories for them all.

His greatest joy in life was being surrounded by family and friends. He had a welcoming smile, positive energy, and when he told a story, the whole room listened. He loved hosting Sunday cookouts by the pool on North Broadway, fishing and boating at Goose Rocks Beach, weekends at Hampton Beach, and winters in Florida with his wife Pat. His hobbies included gardening, flowers, and landscaping. He will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Patricia M. (Costello) Behan of Haverhill; his children, Mark Behan and his wife Leslie of Newton, NH, Mary Ward and her husband Robert of Haverhill; Susan Tashjian and her husband Gregory of Haverhill; Michael Behan of Rusk, TX; grandchildren, Stephen Behan and his wife Erin; Patrick Ward; Eric Ward and his fiancee` Casey Taylor; Timothy Tashjian; Brian Ward; Amy Tashjian; and Daniel Tashjian; great grandchildren, Ayanna Short, Ashlyn and Sadie Behan; sister- in- law, Joanne (Costello) Skofield of York, ME, Robert and Mary Costello of East Kingston, NH; Harold and Sheila (Costello) Francis of Groveland; several first cousins and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by Ray and Kay (Costello) Bergeron.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated on September 12 at St. James Church, Winter Street, Haverhill at 10:00AM. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Vincent de Paul, 6 Cottage Street, Haverhill, MA 01830 or the Liz Murphy Open Pantry, c/o St. James, 6 Cottage Street, Haverhill, MA 01830. Please visit Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook or www.comeaufuneral.com

Due to the current healthcare crisis, funeral services will be private. Arrangements are by the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Vincent de Paul, 6 Cottage Street, Haverhill, MA 01830 or the Liz Murphy Open Pantry, c/o St. James, 6 Cottage Street, Haverhill, MA 01830. Please visit Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook or www.comeaufuneral.com

Condolences(56)

Mary Connelly says
April 22, 2020 at 8:03 pm

I am sorry to hear of Mr. Behan’s passing. He was an inspirational teacher who made a lasting impression on me in particular his typical greeting “Behan is the name, science is the game.” Condolences to all.
Terri (O'Brien) Finn says
April 22, 2020 at 8:33 pm

I am so sorry to hear of Mr Behans passing, he was an inspiration and always greeted students with a smile. He was my principal at Hunking and I ran track with Mark and Mary. God bless the family and I am very very sorry for your loss, the loss of a great man.
Donna Damphousse says
April 22, 2020 at 9:01 pm

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Behan’s passing. I saw him a few months back while we were both getting physical therapy at Whittier Rehab. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to sit, chat and catch up with him that day. Wonderful, wonderful childhood memories of him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Elaine Tirone says
April 22, 2020 at 9:28 pm

So very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I had the pleasure of working for him at Silver Hill. He was loved and respected by staff and parents. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. His presence will surely be missed.
Andrea Thibault says
April 22, 2020 at 9:30 pm

Sending love and sincere condolences from the Thibault family. He was my dad Bob’s life long friend and our beloved principal at Hunking School. A finer man couldn’t be found. A bright light has gone out in Haverhill with his passing – he will be missed. ✨🙏✨
Elaine Tirone says
April 22, 2020 at 9:37 pm

So very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I had the pleasure of working for him as an educator. He was loved and respected by staff and parents. As a person he was caring and very supportive. He has touched the lives of many teachers and students. He will be truly missed. My prayers and thoughts are with his family during this very difficult time.
Elaine Tirone says
April 22, 2020 at 9:49 pm

So very sorry for Tom’s passing. I had pleasure of working for him as an educator. He was loved and respected by his staff and parents. He was always very caring and supportive to everyone. The children loved his involvement and enthusiasm. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Thomas Riley says
April 22, 2020 at 9:57 pm

With all that’s been going on It didn’t take much to bring me to tears (literally} when I heard one of my favorite teachers had past. Mr. Behan was one of the best . I had him for a teacher at Hunking growing up and my kids had him for a principal . Years later I worked for his son Bob at the wastewater dept. My heart goes out to his family and friends, he’ll be surely missed by all .
Ann Lovely says
April 22, 2020 at 10:44 pm

Mr. Behan was my science teacher at Hunking school. A wonderful man and teacher. My condolences to his family.
Gary Arivella says
April 22, 2020 at 10:48 pm

Mary, Kathy and I are so sorry to hear about Tom. Every time I met him at a baseball or hockey game he always had a smile and kind word. He always asked about Kevin and Kim even after they had long graduated.
Wishing you, Bob, Pat, Eric and Brian our condolences and prayers.
Anonymous says
April 22, 2020 at 10:53 pm

I was a student of St James when Mr Behan was our principal. We were young middle school students and many of us kids were from not so well homes. Mr Behan knew who we were and what we were going through and always made a point to let us know his door was always open no matter what! He took the time to always make his kids feel special each and every day! Oh and the kickball games we had…I will forever be “Kathleen Jean the Jelly Bean Queen” when I think of him!! He was a one of a kind Principal and I was always elated when I ran to him at a restaurant or store in the years to follow. He always put a smile on the face of everyone he met and always made a point to let you know how special you were! Thank you Mr Behan for the great memories and our deepest condolences to your love ones!! xoxoxo
Debbie (Lurvey) Cobbett says
April 22, 2020 at 11:26 pm

Mr. Behan was an Awesome Principal. I remember he often joined us girls in a quick game of hopscotch. I have never forgotten him. My condolences to his family. You will all be in my thoughts at this difficult time.
bill ryan says
April 22, 2020 at 11:27 pm

tom was the best of the best……..loyal, honest, forgiving, respectful to all that he knew…rest in peace tom……
Euthemia I Gilman and Robert P Gilman says
April 22, 2020 at 11:27 pm

Bob and I will always remember Tom and we send our heartfelt condolences.
He was my mentor – he came to Silver Hill in 1995 to move our school in a positive land. He helped us name a mascot – Jaguars!; he brought the holiday food drive that culminated in the Car Wash, sometimes in a raging snowstorm!; he challenged us to read,read,read and he went up in a hot-air balloon to celebrate literacy at Silver Hill. He marshalled meals and clothing to the needy; he played kickball at recess- do not interrupt him except the utmost emergency! And I will always remember him every morning leading the parade of the Kindergarteners , singing a Disney song. On rainy days he had his Disney umbrella . And those terrific ties – always in step with the special day or holiday.
He showed me what an educator, an administrator does – listens with total attention and his heart. Tom – I can hear you singing ‘zippity do da’ with that infectious smile!
Carol Hume Paul says
April 22, 2020 at 11:32 pm

Pat, I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. Know we are all praying for you and your family. Love you and pray you are going to be okay.
Mark Cagnetta says
April 23, 2020 at 12:05 am

So sorry to hear this news. Mr. Behan was one of my favorite teachers at Hunking School. My condolences to the Behan family.
Lori says
April 23, 2020 at 12:31 am

My sincerest condolences to Mr. B’s entire family. He was principle at Saint James elementary school where I attended 5th – 8th grade. His daily announcement of the weather will forever be in my memories as he would say: “Mother Nature has been kind to us today. We will have outside recess.” He would then lead the parade of children to the baseball diamond to pitch every single game of kickball!! The world has lost a great and memorable man..but heaven gained one of the most loved principals the Haverhill School system ever had.
Rest peaceful Mr. B
Maureen Ferrante says
April 23, 2020 at 2:29 am

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Behan’s passing. I worked with him as a parent when he was at Burnham School. He made every student in the school feel special. Always had a smile on his face for everyone. He will be missed.
Marc Merrick says
April 23, 2020 at 3:04 am

Mr Behan was an inspiration to all that met him it was an honor to have met him he will be missed by the Haverhill Community
Joe Bevilacqua and Family says
April 23, 2020 at 12:07 pm

I was very sorry to learn of Tom’s passing. I had the honor and pleasure of serving with Tom on the Haverhill School Committee. Tom was a true friend,gentleman and above all someone who cared for kids and education and will be missed by all who knew him.Tom and his family are in our prayers .
Marilyn Caradonna says
April 23, 2020 at 12:24 pm

So sorry to hear of Mr. Behan’s passing. He was a stalwart of HPS for so many years and influential in so many lives. For the entire family, take comfort in your wonderful memories of him to help you through this time. RIP
David & Karen Currier says
April 23, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Tom Behan, was an extraordinary individual, teacher and principal. He was kind and loved all his students, as they also loved him. He will be certainly be missed by all. He will be in our prayers. Rest in peace Tom
Carol and Frank Zito says
April 23, 2020 at 1:22 pm

Our most sincere condolences to the entire Behan family for their loss. As we write this we can hear his laugh and remember how he was a man who lead his life helping those who crossed his path.
Mary Rastauskas says
April 23, 2020 at 1:28 pm

Mr. Behan was one of my favorite administrators. I was a middle schooler at Hunking and vividly remember some great times at that school thanks to him. I quote him often to my own high school students…..”Simmer down, Bobcats. Simmer down.” – of course the kids have no idea what I’m talking about – but it makes me giggle as I remember that was always how he got our attention in school. Great man. Positive influence on so many young lives. My condolences. Be well.
Carol and Frank Zito says
April 23, 2020 at 1:34 pm

Our sincere condolences to the entire Behan family for their loss. As we write this we can hear his laugh while knowing he was a man who lead his life supporting all those who crossed his path
Nancy Wrenn says
April 23, 2020 at 2:59 pm

So sorry Pat.
I have such pleasant memories of Tom especially when he was running for SC. I can picture Tom & Mike over at the Moody school on election day!
Please accept my sincere sympathy. I’ll continue to pray for all of you.
Nancy
Jane Carlson says
April 23, 2020 at 3:32 pm

Dear Pat. So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He loved life. I pray for your health and safety during this very sad time.
Don aand Dolores Bach says
April 23, 2020 at 4:09 pm

Pat, so sorry and sad to hear about Tom’s passing. We spent many happy and laughing hours when you two vacationed at Cinnamon Beach here if Florida. He had a great outlook on life and you matched him perfectly. God Bless, love, and prayers Don & Dolores
Karen (Allen) Currier says
April 23, 2020 at 5:40 pm

Pat and family,
My husband just informed me of Tom’s passing. Although he left a message, I just had to tell you what is in my heart. I was a student at St. James when Tom was our principal. He was the finest and most loving man who had the biggest heart. He was so happy to see his students each and every day. His smile was beaming and he was so selfless. He knew each of us by name and was very involved in our lives. He always made sure to listen when an issue came up and he would offer his wisdom to us. Whether we were in class, at lunch, gym or some assembly, Mr. Behan was right there with us. He treated all of us with respect and dignity and his love for us did not go unnoticed. It warmed my heart every time I ran into him. He always asked about my family and we would catch up on life. He was so happy about his life and his family. He was an angel to so many of us and now he is looking over all of you from above. He is your angel and we will cherish the day when we will see him again. Although our hearts ache for this terrible loss, we can smile when we think of him and thank God for having him in our lives. I will forever be grateful for having him in my life.
Mimi Colwell says
April 23, 2020 at 5:51 pm

Pat and family,
Grieving with you and sending love.
“They whom we love and lose are no longer where they were before.
They are now wherever we are.” (St. John Chrysostom)
May you always feel surrounded by Tom’s loving presence.
Mimi Cleary Colwell
Richard Raiche says
April 23, 2020 at 10:19 pm

Tom was the standard of excellence as a school principal. In my career he was an important influence. Both his mind and his heart were in the right place. Thanks Tom.
Karen Thornhill says
April 23, 2020 at 10:49 pm

He was my absolute favorite teacher, he made science fun! My daughter and son had him for their principle and they adored him! Later I worked for him at the school and he was a pleasure to work for! My heart goes out to his family, just know how much he gave to the children he taught and helped,
he will be missed!! Rest in peace!!!!
Eva Valentine says
April 24, 2020 at 12:26 am

Tom Behan was so helpful to our family in educating our daughter who has learning challenges. He made such a difference in our lives and we are so very grateful. His memory will always be a blessing. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family.
Sheri Davis says
April 24, 2020 at 10:50 am

My sincere condolences,
I was a student at St.James way back in the day and I have never forgotten Mr. Behan. He left a live long impact on me. Life was very difficult for me back then but he was always that ray of sunshine as we all would play kickball. He was definitely a person who Shined above many
Diane Juknavorian says
April 24, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Dear Pat and Family,
I am so sad to hear of Tom’s passing. I was fortunate to be part of Tom’s team at Silver Hill. He was a wonderful, caring, compassionate principal. He loved the students. He always said that taking care of family connections was a priority. And thanks to him we felt that connection as a Jaguar family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
JOAN BARNARD says
April 24, 2020 at 2:10 pm

I was so sorry to hear you lost your dad, Mark. I didn’t know him, but he sounds like a wonderful man who will be truly missed by many. Sorry we can’t be there to lend support during these difficult times.
Yvonne and Ron Sarofian says
April 24, 2020 at 2:23 pm

Dear Pat and Mary and the entire Behan family,
My heart sank when I heard that this wonderful person had left us.
He was an outstanding person and an educator par excellence! My first memories go back to Haverhill High School where Tom played football and served as president of his class. I can still picture him walking through the hallways between classes with his books slung under his arm on his way with such purpose and always a friendly smile. Later it was my pleasure to work with Tom as my principal in two different schools. He brought everything to the position, humor, quiet understanding of everyone’s needs, you could talk to him about anything. He created an atmosphere for a happy school, always did the right thing for everyone, listening with great sincerity. Oh my ! What a gentleman ! He was the first person in line at my mother’s wake and when I think that this virus prevents us from making our visitation it saddens me.
Ron and I have always admired Tom. He lived his life with great purpose. You must all be so proud of him.
Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss,
Sincerely, Yvonne and Ron Sarofian
Lisa (Barnes) Williams says
April 24, 2020 at 2:34 pm

Mr. Behan was my principal at St. James grades 6-8, just as it turned from catholic to a public school. He was a leader, an inspiration, a mentor, and came out daily at recess to play dodgeball with us. As years passed, I would see him (mostly at the market), and he never forgot a name, always took the time to ask how I was and in turn, I would ask him the same. He always had a smile……may you RIP Mr. Behan…..my sincere condolences to the Behan Family….🙏💙
Rollie and Donna Boucher says
April 24, 2020 at 3:36 pm

Dear Pat and Family,
We are truly sorry for your loss. Tom was a great educator and a strong advocate for kids. So many students and staff benefited from his leadership over the years.
He will be missed.
George & Barbara Constantine says
April 24, 2020 at 4:15 pm

Please accept our condolences on the passing of Tom. It was an honor to have known such a great person and friend He will always be in our prayers.
Kaye Bernius Danford says
April 24, 2020 at 11:03 pm

Dear Mr Behan,

Your spirit is bigger than life could hold on this earth. You gave so much, loved life, played, you cared, educated and inspired. You made me think wider, you made an ever lasting difference in my life. 1966, 6th grade Hunking. I never knew you were new at teaching. Yes you were a fabulous story teller and I listened, (very rare) and remember. I see how much you’ve impacted so many others. Thank you
Miriam Chevalier says
April 24, 2020 at 11:16 pm

Sincere condolences to the Behan Family. He was a wonderful man alway looking out for others. I had the pleasure of being in the Class of 1957 with Tom.
Grateful student says
April 25, 2020 at 12:02 pm

Mr Behan,

Thoughts remembered through the eyes your 6th grade student. When you spoke I listened, you taught lessons through visuals & stories and I remembered. You made a difference in my life and can see that was just the beginning of your teaching career. I felt your confidence & not have suspected you were new at this. Though your stature was BIG you were comforting and never intimidating. From the very beginning you knew how to capture our minds and hearts. School was a struggle, fir me, especially paying attention and you reached me.

As climate change became such a top priority I flashed back to class when in 1966 you told us we’d experience this. I thought of you so many times in between. I wished I didn’t wait 44 yrs to call you & learn you were in hospital and your wife fighting this wretched virus.

A kind and gentle man was given to us, it’s wonderful to know so many others were touched by your gifts and will sorely miss you.

To your wife, family and friends Im deeply sad for your loss. Obviously the Big Big guy needed your help.

RIP Mr Behan you made a mark on me. I was one of the fortunates. Thank you
Bradley & Janice Roope says
April 25, 2020 at 3:59 pm

We are Praying for the Behnan family for the tragic lose of Tom from an unknown Monster that has now affected so many people in the world. God says “ At a time I have planned, I will bring justice against the wicked. When the earth quakes and the people live in turmoil. I am the one who keeps its foundation firm.”
Dot Riley and Dorothy Donohoe says
April 25, 2020 at 7:05 pm

Dear Pat and family,
So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He was a gentleman and a good man. Always enjoyed his company. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Gary and Judy Guptill says
April 25, 2020 at 7:47 pm

Tom was a wonderful person. He was so very kind.We know he will be missed by so many. Our condolences go out to his family.
Jim and Kathy Rurak says
April 26, 2020 at 3:15 pm

Dear Pat and Family,
Tom did it all with dignity and passion. Teacher, husband, father, principal, athlete, and public servant. I had the honor to serve with him on the School Committee. And I agree with Bill Ryan that he was the best of the best. For me, he was at his best when I saw him play kick-ball with his students at recesses at Moody School. His love and enthusiasm for them was infectious. And he created the best possible platform for their learning experience. And I’m sure he help create other such platforms in the various dimensions of his life. People like Tom come around only once and a while; that is why he has made an indelible and positive mark on our community.
JANE THIEFELS says
April 26, 2020 at 10:57 pm

To Susan Tashjian.
Dear Sue,
I read about your father’s passing in the Eagle Tribune, and I could see why he was so loved in our community for his tremendous service to children, schools, and education. I am sorry to hear that you lost your dear father. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Cynthia C Zangari says
April 27, 2020 at 11:58 am

I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He touched the lives of the Zangari family in many ways, mostly through my sister, Kathleen Noyes. She was an educator under the leadership of Mr. Behan in several of the schools he was a principal. He was my drivers ed instructor and later I substituted as his secretary at the Hunking School. A great, caring man that instilled positivity to all! Prayers and condolences to the Behan family.
Mary Jane Ryan says
April 27, 2020 at 12:11 pm

Dear Pat,Mark,Susie and the whole Behan family. I send my condolences to you all. Much love and peace during this difficult time.
Louis Yelle says
April 27, 2020 at 12:38 pm

Dear Pat and Family,
My heartfelt condolences to you upon hearing of Tom’s passing. When I was moved to Hunking School in 1968, I met the finest teacher, coach, and leader named Tom Behan. We spent many years together, one of my finest colleagues, friend, and later fellow administrator. Always thoughtful and caring, he left positive feelings to everyone he was in contact with, especially with the youth in Haverhill, and fellow teachers/administrators. Indeed, the very best in whatever his involvement! Our prayers go out to you, and may you find peace in knowing how important he was to all of us.
Bina Beauregard says
April 27, 2020 at 3:27 pm

Pat, Gary and I are so sorry for your loss. He was a great guy that will be dearly missed. Our Prayers are with you and your family.

Bina and Gary
Debbie Desmond says
April 27, 2020 at 8:13 pm

So sorry to hear of his passing. We remember him welI, as our daughter’s Principal. Such a natural gifted educator. One of our favorite people in the city.

Mr. Behan and the kids
By playing with them, he’s taught them they are important enough for an adult companion and friend.
By letting them talk on the intercom, he’s taught them that their voices are important enough to be heard.
By joking with them he’s taught them the value of humor and laughter.
By calling them BULLDOGS, he’s give them something Important to live up to and something important to be.
By being a great Principal, he’s taught them not to fear authority, but rather to work with it.
By getting involved with their problems, he’s shown them the significance of working things out.
By rewarding them with special activities, he’s built their self esteem and can do attitudes.
By getting to know each child individually, he’s made them feel they each have something to offer.
By giving them special jobs to do he’s taught them about responsibility.
And most importantly, the infamous seagull episode taught the kids that it’s all right to lighten up and laugh at yourself when such things happen.
We appreciate all you’ve done for our kids your BULLDOG HIGHNESS. The parents of the class of 1995
Peter says
April 28, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Dear Mark, Mary and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a great man.
Peter Richardson says
April 28, 2020 at 1:41 pm

Dear Mark, Mary and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a great man and his legacy will live on. May his soul rest in peace. Sincerely, Peter & Kathy Richardson
Eric Martin says
May 23, 2022 at 7:38 pm

Wonderful, wonderful man. I knew him for a short time in comparison to so many people that he touched but he made such an impact on me during our brief time together. His visits left me feeling uplifted, giving me advice on being a dad, my career, and life in general. RIP Tom and thank you.