The Blair community gathered to bid farewell to a beloved faculty member on Saturday, October 9, remembering Dennis Peachey ’62 as a kind and humble leader who dedicated his life to caring for and supporting Blair students and all aspects of campus life for 40 years. Nicknamed “Mr. Blair” for his renowned dedication to the School, Dennis’ story began, in many ways, the year that he turned 15.

“In the summer of 1958,” wrote longtime friend Larry Snavely ’67 in a memorial video presented at the service, “Dennis rode 14 miles through the woods to interview for a job on Bar Island, Parry Sound, Ontario. Impressed by his initiative, Walter Baumann [Blair class of 1922] hired him on the spot.” Over time, Walter’s admiration for the boy grew, and, before long, “He was inspired to make Dennis a very generous offer. Walter offered Dennis a full scholarship to his alma mater, Blair Academy.”

The rest is Blair history. After graduating in 1962, Dennis returned to the School a few years later, joining the faculty as Secretary of the Academy. In addition to his development role, Dennis coached soccer, skiing and hockey and taught in both the science and art departments. He married his wife, Lynn, Hon. ’65 ’74 ’77, and together they began raising their two children on campus. Later, as Assistant Headmaster for Finance and Development, Dennis revitalized the School’s endowment and oversaw a renaissance in the development of Blair’s buildings and grounds. His greatest achievements, however, were reflected in his genuine love of people and personal relationships. 

At a packed memorial service at Blairstown’s First Presbyterian Church and at a reception on campus this week, former students and colleagues, longtime friends and family stepped forward, giving heartfelt eulogies for a man remembered for his quiet humility, incredible thoughtfulness, superior athleticism and absolute devotion to his family, friends and Blair Academy. 

James T. Thompson ’77, who came to Blair two weeks after his own father passed away, described Dennis, saying, “He was truly the father I did not have...I am a firm believer that the presence of God is found in the interaction between human beings. If you want to find God’s spirit, that’s where it is. That is what Dennis gave to so many people. He gave so much of himself.” Speaking to his dear friend and mentor, James promised, “You are in all of our hearts. You will live on.”

Dennis’ children, Trustee Derek Peachey ’93 and Meghan Peachey-Bogen ’96, also addressed the gathering, peppering their recollections with jokes and family anecdotes, capturing the deep humanity of their father in its fullness. “Dennis Peachey was a complex man, more sensitive than he let on... Intensely human,” Derek offered. He said his father taught his children about the importance of a strong work ethic and how to live a life with humility and decency.

Head of School Peter G. Curran recalled the huge role that philanthropy played in Dennis’ life story. Dennis’ story began with a life-changing opportunity, thanks to the generosity of Mr. Baumann, and Dennis’ legacy will include paying that generosity forward. The Dennis Peachey Memorial Scholarship was founded so other students would have the chance that Mr. Baumann provided to Dennis. “It is so moving to have seen so many alums and lifelong friends give back in Dennis’ name as a way to honor and thank him,” Mr. Curran said. To date, he said, the fund has raised nearly $300,000 from more than 50 donors, granting other students the gift of a bright future.

As one of the School’s foremost ambassadors during his lifetime, Dennis touched many lives in his capacity as coach, mentor and friend. In all those roles, ​​he exemplified living a life of principle, dedicated to uplifting others. Meghan Peachey-Bogen ’96 offered that she had received many kind notes after the passing of her father, but one stood out for capturing the essence of Dennis Peachey well: “When all is said and done, your dad was simply one of the finest persons that I have ever known.”

The Peachey family and Blair Academy sincerely appreciate the gifts that have been made to the Dennis Wm. Peachey ’62 Endowed Scholarship and wish to thank the many alumni, families and friends who have generously contributed. Their gifts honor Mr. Peachey’s legacy of love for Blair and its students and have helped grow the educational opportunities afforded through this scholarship. If you would like to support the Dennis Wm. Peachey ’62 Endowed Scholarship, please contact Chief Advancement Officer Craig Hall at hallc@blair.edu or (908) 362-2032 or Assistant Director of Advancement for Capital and Planned Giving Velma Lubliner at lubliv@blair.edu or (908) 362-2041.

Click here to watch the memorial video.