Jason Cornaglia, 49
Pocasset, MA
Jason W. Cornaglia, age 49, of Pocasset, formerly of Taunton, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at The Boston Medical Center in Boston. Jason was a much-loved son, brother and educator in the New Bedford School System.
Born in Taunton, MA on February 2, 1974, he was the loving son of Frederic and Anne Marie (Wagner) Cornaglia.
Jay grew up in Taunton and was a 1992 graduate of Coyle Cassidy High School. While in high school he excelled on both the football and track teams. He continued his football career while attending Salve Regina University where he obtained his undergraduate degree in Special Education. He would go on to obtain his Master’s Degree in Education from Cambridge College.
Jay had many passions in life, first and foremost was his family. Jay’s love and devotion to his family was always present whether at holiday get togethers, family vacations or casual visits. Nobody could entertain family and relatives like Jay could, especially at holiday dinners and Halloween where his costumes were legendary. But it was the family road trips, most recently to the Field of Dreams field in Iowa, were he made his true presence felt. Jay was a best friend to the entire family, but especially to his brother Brian and sisters Lisa and Heidi.
Jay especially loved teaching, which he knew he wanted to do at a young age. He began his teaching career in the Taunton school system prior to transferring to Normandin Middle School in New Bedford in 2008. The impact Jay had on his students was immeasurable. Whether it was serving as an Acceleration Academy teacher, doing crosswalk duty, substituting, or coaching numerous athletic programs like girls soccer, flag football, boys cross country or boys basketball, his dedication to his students set him apart. He made connections not only with the special needs students whom he taught, but also those outside his classes.
To friends and family he was known as Jay. To work colleagues and students he was known by many names like Mr. C, JC, Coach C and the Mayor of Normandin. Jay was particularly proud of his catholic school background. Jay was an avid Boston sports fan and golfer. Football was his true favorite where he played semi-pro as a wide receiver for the Middleboro Cobras. He loved concerts and would never turn down an offer to attend one. He enjoyed spending time on the beach, especially Old Silver, Ft Myers Beach, and Sanibel Island. Jay really enjoyed simple things like spending time at The Corner Café in Pocasset or shopping at Gray Gables Market. Some of his guilty pleasures included skateboarding, new sneakers, and indulging in food from Federal Hill.
It will be Jay’s loyalty to his family, friends and work colleagues that will be missed most of all. As a son, brother, uncle, cousin, teacher and friend he took a genuine interest in the lives of others. His personality and big heart will never be replaced but will always be remembered.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by Brian Cornaglia, Lisa (Cornaglia) Hill, Bruce and Heidi (Cornaglia) Mollar; as well as nieces Madisen and Taylor Hill, aunt Corinne Wagner, uncle Earl (Frankie) Wagner, cousins Greg, Meredith, Alyssa, Garrett and Noah Morris.
Calling hours and services are being held privately. We would like to thank all family and friends who have reached out and offered prayers.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial scholarship in Jason’s name to benefit special education and sports where he worked has been created to continue his legacy. Donations can be made payable to: The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and mailed to Chris Donnolly 201 Plymouth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740
To send his family a message of condolence, please visit www.shermandjackson.com