Samuel Allan Towle

Samuel Allan “Al” Towle, 90, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, at Whitney Place Assisted Living in Northborough, MA, with family by his side. He was born on January 29, 1935, in Newburyport, MA, to the late Samuel and Margaret Towle.

Al grew up in Hampton, NH, attended Hampton Academy (Class of 1952), and went on to earn his degree from Plymouth State University in 1956. A lifelong educator with a special passion for the sciences, he devoted more than 50 years to teaching, including over 30 years in the Lee Public Schools. His commitment to learning continued throughout his life as he pursued graduate studies at Boston University.

Before settling down, Al traveled the world in his blue Corvette, collecting stories he would later share with family and friends. In 1977, he married the love of his life, Flora Marie Arment. Together they raised two daughters, Katie and Lizzie, who were the pride and joy of his life. He never missed a soccer or basketball game and was always ready with a listening ear or his signature practical, no-nonsense advice.

Al’s dedication to his community extended far beyond the classroom. He volunteered at the Lee Town Hall, served as a volunteer EMT, spent many summers staffing the Lee Chamber of Commerce information booth, and worked behind the scenes with Community Television for the Southern Berkshires (CTSB) . He also proudly served in the Navy Reserves from 1952 to 1960.

He cherished life’s simple pleasures—walking to work or to the Lee Library, reading the newspaper every morning and devouring up to three books each week, visiting Ogunquit, ME for a lobster dinner, and spending time with his grandsons. He especially treasured library outings and ice cream sundaes shared with them. Al and Flora celebrated 48 wonderful years of marriage, and she survives him.

He is also survived by his daughters, Kathleen Piretti and her husband Paul of League City, TX, and Elizabeth Tretiak and her husband Nate of Berlin, MA, along with his cherished grandsons, Charlie and Benji. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Murray and Phillip.

Al will be deeply missed by all who knew him, remembered for his ever-dapper appearance, his gentle and calm demeanor, and his unwavering kindness.  A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, December 18th at 11 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Lee.  There will be no burial at this time.  Visiting hours will be on Thursday morning from 9 – 10:30 AM at the Kelly Funeral Home in Lee. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Al’s memory to the Lee Library Association in c/o the Kelly Funeral Home  3 Main Street  Lee, MA  01238.