James T. Raby

WORCESTER - James T. “Jim” Raby, 73, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his devoted family, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at UMass Memorial Medical Center—University Campus in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, and raised in Nashua, New Hampshire, Jim was the beloved son of the late Edward A. and Ada M. (St. Peter) Raby. He spent his elementary years at St. Christopher Catholic School in Nashua. In 1971, he graduated from Nashua High School. A lifelong believer in the value of education, Jim continued his studies at Keene State College, earning a bachelor’s degree in American Studies with a minor in Fine Arts. He later attended Boston University’s satellite campus in Heidelberg, Germany, where he received a master’s degree in educational administration.

Jim’s passion for education and cultural exchange shaped both his professional career and his life’s purpose. In 1975, he joined the Peace Corps, dedicating three years to serving communities abroad while fostering understanding between cultures. Following his Peace Corps service, he joined Telemedia, Incorporated, where he taught English as a Second Language to technical students in Tehran, Iran. This employment was followed by a stint in Kuwait, teaching English to Getty and Kuwait Oil Company employees. Finally, he joined Robert V. Associates, teaching English to Saudi Interior Ministry students and employees in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

It was during his years overseas that fate introduced Jim to the love of his life, Billy McGowan. Both were teaching English while living in Tehran, when they met. Their first date began on January 1, 1979, and, as civil unrest brought daily life to a standstill, the two spent four unforgettable days together. What began as an unexpected circumstance blossomed into a loving partnership that spanned decades. Together they eventually made their home in Worcester in 1998, and on June 9, 2005, they were united in marriage, celebrating a relationship built on unwavering love, mutual respect, adventure, and shared purpose.

Upon returning to Massachusetts, Jim continued his distinguished career in education serving as an Education Administrator and English as a Second Language instructor with the International Institution of Boston. He ultimately found his professional home at Clark University, where for twenty -five years, he faihfully served as Director of the American Language and Culture Institute. Throughout his career, Jim welcomed and mentored thousands of international students, helping them not only master the English language but also navigate life in a new country with confidence and compassion. His warmth, patience, and genuine interest in others left an enduring impact on countless lives.

Outside of his profession, Jim embraced life with curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm. He and Billy shared a passion for traveling the world, creating cherished memories while experiencing diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines. An avid reader with a keen appreciation for art and design, Jim possessed an extraordinary eye for interior decorating, transforming his home into a warm and welcoming reflection of his good taste. He was also an adventurous and accomplished cook who delighted in recreating the flavors of the many countries he visited, joyfully sharing their culinary discoveries with family and friends around his table.

Above all else, Jim will be remembered for the love he shared so generously with his family, his friends, his students, and everyone fortunate enough to know him, especially with Billy. His kindness, intelligence, gentle spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of education and human connection leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.

Jim leaves behind his best friend and beloved husband of twenty-one years, Billy McGowan of Worcester, whose unwavering love and companionship were the greatest joys of his life. He was also survived by his stepsister, Joni Raby-Bowne and her husband, Randy, of Epsom, New Hampshire; his sister-in-law, Penny Raby of Tilton, New Hampshire; his niece, Christine Migdal and her husband, Preston, of Tilton, New Hampshire; his nephew, John Raby, Jr. and his wife, Shelby, of Concord, New Hampshire; his cherished step-niece, Ashley, and grand-nieces, Tenley and Flora; as well as several beloved extended family members and many dear friends, former students, colleagues, and neighbors whose lives were enriched by his kindness and generosity.

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his stepmother, Nita J. (Robinson) Raby, and his brother, John Raby, Sr.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather with Jim’s family to celebrate and honor his life on Saturday, 1 August, 2026, at 1:30 PM (the formal program begins at 2 PM) in the Parkview Room of the former Fire Alarm and Telegraph Building (presently Cornerstone Bank), 230 Park Avenue, Worcester, MA. 01609.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim memory to the Worcester County Food Bank, 474 Boston Turnpike
Shrewsbury, MA 01545, and the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden Street, Worcester, MA 01606.