Anthony Mattera of Revere, Massachusetts, and a longtime teacher and coach in Revere Public Schools, passed away on Friday, June 21, 2024. His passing was announced by the RTA – Revere Teachers Association, which expressed their condolences in a social media statement: “The RTA is saddened to hear of the passing of school committee member and longtime educator Tony Mattera. Your loss will be felt by all.”
Anthony Mattera’s cause of death was an illness he had been battling for some time. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen, Tony did not give his health much thought, and his diagnosis came as a shock to those who knew him. After receiving the diagnosis a few years ago, he underwent medical treatments and continued to live his life as best he could. He remained committed to his work and his family, giving everything he had to be the best he could be until the very end.
Anthony Mattera was a classroom teacher and coach with over 32 years of service in Revere Public Schools. He was a beloved figure in the community, known for his dedication to education and his innovative teaching methods. He continued to serve on the school committee and remained active in his community even as he battled his illness. Tony was a family man who cherished his life, his family, and his town. He loved hosting get-togethers for his family and friends, cheering on his beloved Boston sports teams, and spending time in Ogunquit with his family.
Tony’s dedication to his family was evident in the way he prepared for their visits. He built a pair of bunk beds for his grandsons, Caleb and Ethan, so they would have a place to sleep when they visited. Even in his final days, Tony was focused on ensuring that his family was taken care of and that they would have fond memories of their time together.
As a teacher, Tony was adored by his students for his ability to make learning enjoyable. He had a talent for simplifying difficult subjects and engaging his students with unconventional teaching methods. Some of his memorable lessons included his teachings on amoebas, his competitions to wrap and protect eggs and drop them from the school roof, and his lessons on investing, where students would select a firm stock each year and monitor its performance in the stock market. Tony believed that making learning fun was key to helping students retain information and develop a love for education.
Anthony Mattera’s impact extended beyond the classroom. He was known for his dedication to improving education in Revere and was elected to the school committee in the previous election. Despite his illness, he continued to work tirelessly to support the provision of high-quality education in his hometown. Tony’s quiet, respectful approach and unwavering commitment to his community earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and neighbors.
Tony’s legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and a deep love for his community. He lived his life with the goal of making the world a better place for everyone he encountered. His contributions to education and his community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. As his family, friends, and colleagues mourn his passing, they also celebrate the life of a remarkable individual who touched so many lives with his passion and dedication.
