Sean Roger Flaherty, a beloved teacher and football coach, has passed away. Sean was deeply committed to helping young people, dedicating 18 years to teaching and 22 years to coaching football. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, mentorship, and community service.
Sean Roger Flaherty was born on September 12, 1979, in Akron, Ohio, to Thomas and Christine Flaherty. Raised in Stow, Ohio, Sean graduated from Stow-Munroe Falls High School in 1998. He continued his education at Walsh University, where he excelled both academically and athletically. As a tight end, he was a team captain and played a crucial role in leading the Cavaliers to the 2001 Mid-States Football Association Mideast Championship and the school’s first-ever berth in the national playoffs. Sean graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in criminology and later earned his teaching certification from the University of Akron.
Sean began his teaching career as a high school English/Language Arts teacher at Wadsworth High School and later taught at Cuyahoga Falls High School. His passion for football was equally prominent. He started his coaching career at his alma mater, Stow-Munroe Falls High School, and then moved to Wadsworth High School, where he helped the Grizzlies reach the regional finals. He subsequently became the head coach at Cuyahoga Falls High School, leading the Black Tigers for four years. Sean continued his coaching journey at Medina Buckeye High School, Revere High School, and eventually returned to Stow-Munroe Falls High School, where he spent the past two seasons.
Sean married Emily Howell, the love of his life, on December 20, 2008. The couple resided in Stow and shared a deep love for their two dogs, Bernie and Lucky. Sean is survived by his parents, Thomas and Christine Flaherty; his brothers, Michael (Angela) Flaherty and Brian (Melissa) Flaherty; his sisters, Patty Flaherty and Theresa (Josh) Trego; his nieces, Kaylie, Emme, Kate, Molly, Abigail, Meyah, Aurie, and goddaughter, Bree; his nephews, Danny, Dominic, Luke, and godson, Ryan; and his brother-in-law, Adam (Lindsey) Howell.
Funeral Arrangements
Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, OH 44224, for visitation on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, from 4 to 8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 10 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 3179 Kent Road, Stow, OH 44224. Sean will be laid to rest at Silver Springs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Sean’s name to the Stow-Munroe Falls Boosters at www.smfboosters.com.
Sean’s life was defined by his dedication to education and sports, his love for his family, and his commitment to his community. As a teacher, Sean was known for his ability to connect with students and inspire them to achieve their best. He believed in the power of education to transform lives and worked tirelessly to create a positive and supportive learning environment.
As a football coach, Sean’s influence extended beyond the field. He taught his players the values of teamwork, perseverance, and integrity. His coaching style was not just about winning games but about building character and preparing his players for life. His former players remember him as a mentor who cared deeply about their personal growth and success.
Sean’s impact on the community was profound. He was not only a teacher and coach but also a mentor and friend to many. His dedication to his students and players, his involvement in community activities, and his willingness to lend a helping hand made him a beloved figure in Stow and beyond. His legacy will continue through the lives he touched and the positive changes he inspired.
Sean’s passing is a significant loss to his family, friends, colleagues, and the many students and athletes he mentored. His life was a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and service. As the community comes together to remember Sean, they celebrate the remarkable contributions he made and the enduring impact of his life’s work.
In his honor, the family encourages everyone to support youth and community programs, reflecting Sean’s lifelong commitment to making a difference. Through these efforts, Sean’s legacy of dedication and positive influence will continue to inspire future generations.
Sean Roger Flaherty’s life was a beacon of dedication, compassion, and unwavering support for the young people he taught and coached. His legacy is one of profound influence and community spirit. As friends, family, and the community mourn his loss, they also celebrate the many ways Sean’s life touched their own. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the positive changes he inspired throughout his remarkable career.
