Accepting the Alumni Service Award in memory of his father, Frank W. Worthley Jr. '60, '75, Tommy Worthley said Fitchburg State was not just his father's alma mater.
"He loved this university, and he dedicated his life to it," he said. "This place molded who he was."
Frank Worthley (May 24, 1937 to Aug. 6, 2023) was the type of alumnus that every college wishes to have: the emotional cheerleader of the institution, loyal to the end. Through his college years, Worthley earned the title of “Mr. Everything,” playing soccer, basketball, baseball, and track. He also participated in the Newman Club, Glee Club, Drama Club, and Mohawk Club. He excelled as a member of the 1957–58 soccer team, helping Fitchburg State win its first championship.
After graduating, Worthley returned to Fitchburg State College to earn his Master’s in Education, Occupational Administration in 1975. He spent 40 years in education, concentrating in pre-vocational exploration, industrial arts, general shop and science, and continued to serve as a substitute teacher in Fitchburg, Leominster, and Ashburnham. He devoted more than 40 years of his life to athletics, officiating and coaching at the high school, college and semi-professional levels.
Worthley continued to support and advocate for campus organizations throughout his life. He was a central figure in the creation of the Fitchburg State Athletic Hall of Fame and remained an active advisor to the Hall of Fame Committee, serving as a font of institutional knowledge about past athletes and teams. He was also a proud member of the Alumni Association Board for over two decades and volunteered both his services and his thoughts until his passing in August of this year.
Fitchburg State will truly miss his presence and unwavering love for this institution.