Dr. Anabel Padilla Casey, a trailblazer in education and a champion of her community, was born on January 25, 1934, in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Her life’s journey was marked by a deep commitment to learning, teaching, and empowering others.
Anabel received her bachelor’s degree from the College of Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee, MA, earned a master’s degree from the InterAmerican University in Puerto Rico, and obtained her Ph.D. from Boston College. Anabel embarked on a remarkable career in education, leaving an indelible impact at every step along the way. She started a nursery at home, nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning from an early age. Her dedication to education led her to Academia Nuestra Señora de la Providencia, where she served as a teacher of English and Biology.
Anabel’s visionary leadership and tireless dedication soon saw her rise to the position of principal. Under her guidance, Academia Nuestra Señora de la Providencia flourished, as she introduced innovative programs and initiatives to enhance the educational experience. Notably, she pioneered the introduction of a twelfth academic year, which culminated in the commencement of the first graduating class, a milestone that spoke volumes about her leadership and mentorship. Anabel’s impact extended beyond the confines of a single institution. She was appointed Superintendent of Catholic Schools in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she continued her mission of transforming lives through education.
Anabel and her family moved to Massachusetts in 1988 where she assumed the role of Associate Dean of the College of Education at Boston College. She ended her professional career as Secretary of Education for Puerto Rico. Anabel was a pillar of strength and compassion to her family, friends, and community. Her boundless generosity, unwavering kindness, and infectious optimism touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Anabel was predeceased by her parents, Julio and Carmen Padilla, her husband Paul Casey, her sisters, Olga, Irma, Violeta and Hilda, and her beloved niece Tuti. She is survived by her sons, Paul (Maria) of Deerfield Beach, FL, and Charles of Framingham, MA, granddaughters, Meghann and Melissa, two great-grandchildren, Savanna and Sebastian and numerous nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will honor and remember Anabel’s life by celebrating her Funeral Mass on Friday, May 31st in St. Stephen Church, 221 Concord St. Framingham at 4:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Anabel’s name to: the American Heart Association, www.heart.org.
To share a memory with Anabel’s family, kindly visit www.mccarthyfh.com
The A Cappella Singers 
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