Anthony "Tony" Caputo

It is with infinite sadness we share the sudden loss of Anthony “Tony” J. Caputo, who was born October 21st, 1946, in Worcester, MA to parents John and Jennie “Jean” (Perrone) Caputo. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on March 4th, 2026 at UMass Memorial Medical Center.

A graduate of Worcester State University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education, he went on to have a decades-long career, shaping young minds as a teacher & principal in the Worcester public school system. Having previously served at the Gates Lane and Flagg Street schools, he became the first principal at the Jacob Hiatt Magnet School from its inception in 1990 until 2006. He guided & supported students and staff alike with limitless care & endless encouragement, putting his heart & soul into every individual & detail. Tony’s commitment to advancing students’ personal & academic potential helped to implement countless reforms: school-wide community service projects, universal breakfast programs, two-way bilingual classes, voluntary uniforms, extended school days, alternative student assessment strategies (Project Zero), and new approaches to teacher development opportunities – All of which led to federal recognition, including a National Award for Model Professional Development in 2000 and a Blue Ribbon award in 2001.

Tony was an avid reader & passionate antique collector. Over the years, he was active in the Brimfield Antique Show and had his own business. He had an affinity for early & pre-American pieces and had diverse interests – From model cars to pottery & glassware. Tony and Bettyann spent numerous summers in their home in York, Maine, always with one of their beautiful sheepdogs by their sides. They were often joined on their adventures by dear family & friends to the beach & Nubble Lighthouse, with no shortage of cookouts & ice cream along the way.

He is survived by his wife, Bettyann (Gold) Reck-Caputo of Worcester, MA; his sister Raquel Irving of Pompano Beach, FL; daughter Robin Rubin and son-in-law Robert Rubin of York, ME; son Andrew Reck and daughter-in-law Louise Reck of Wayland, MA; granddaughters Julia, Sofia and Madeleine Reck; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, Tony was predeceased by a son Joshua Reck; brother, Ralph Caputo; brother-in-law Richard Irving; sister-in-law Carole Calo & brother-in-law Andrew Calo.

Tony was the most kindhearted & patient person imaginable. A soulmate & best friend to Bettyann. A wonderful & supportive father and grandfather. Always available to lend an ear, provide advice or share witty exchanges. He always maintained a quiet vibrancy, and his presence will be felt & deeply missed by those who knew & loved him.

Calling hours will be held Saturday, March 14th from 12:00pm to 3:00pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the New England Old English Sheepdog Rescue, 41 Farrar Rd., Lincoln MA. www.neoesr.org/donate, or the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave, Boston MA, www.dana-farber.org/donate.