Rev. Laurence L. Cassidy, S.J., 77, a long-time faculty member of Saint Peter’s College, died on Thursday, June 29 at Murray-Weigel Hall, the Jesuit Infirmary, in the Bronx, NY, after a short illness. Fr. Cassidy served as a Philosophy Professor at Saint Peter’s since 1969 and Department Chair for a term. Prior to joining Saint Peter’s, Fr. Cassidy taught Philosophy at Fordham University and taught Latin, Greek and English at Brooklyn Prep.
Born in Kew Gardens, NY, Fr. Cassidy served the Society of Jesus for more than 50 years, entering the Order in 1948. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1961 and professed his Final Vows in 1965.
Fr. Cassidy graduated from De LaSalle High School in New York City and attended the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA before joining the Society of Jesus. He earned his undergraduate degree from Fordham University and his doctorate from Woodstock College in Woodstock, MD.
“Father Cassidy was well-known for challenging students to continue to probe for knowledge and search for truth in their studies and personal lives,” said Fr. Edward Heavey, S.J., rector of the Jesuit community at Saint Peter’s College.
The wake will take place at McLaughlin Funeral Home, 625 Pavonia Avenue, in Jersey City on Sunday, July 2 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Peter’s Church in downtown Jersey City on Monday, July 3 at 10 a.m.