“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make” – The Beatles
On this day of remembering John we would offer all of you, his family and friends the challenge of remembering John in his LIFE not his death. Since his death is so tragic and senseless it is easy to focus just on the unthinkable horror of it; to be shocked into the reality that accidents like these can happen, and happen to great kids like John. Let’s focus instead on his life and the legacy of that life. John who was a loving and devoted son…an outrageously funny child who could charm you instantly…a brother who held up his sisters so affectionately. The kind of friend who could call so many his friends; a friend who made you instantly comfortable, because he would treat each of you like a best friend. John had skills and qualities beyond his years, his accomplishments were considerable but his resume does not speak to his kindness, his sincerity, his non-judgmental nature, his capacity to care about you and love. John’s heart was as wide as his arm span.
A legacy is not as easy to move forward as a life. So we have to work to hold John within us, to see people and the world as he did, to believe that everyone counts. John was a champion of the underdog. His friend Dave has shared a beautiful story about how he, Dave, and other friends of John would save a seat for him at lunch because he was a popular guy and people liked to be with him, and one day John started waving his friends away from their tables and had them sit with a high school kid who was sitting alone and John patted him on the back and said, “Hi, how is your day going?” John could be quite unabashed with his affection. When I picked him up from PC on his last day of school as a freshman; a difficult time for John…After he packed the van full of trash bags of stuff he asked if we could stop by the Providence mall, he NEEDED a CD. When he got out of the car he linked arms with me and we walked entering the mall and I wondered when wouldthis big six foot guy be embarrassed to be walking arm and arm with his mom, when would it be a bit much? It never was, we walked and talked arm and arm as if we were the only ones in the mall…to Newbury comics and back he never let go.
John, everyday I miss you more, the things you say, the way you are. Words can’t explain all the things I feel, the things I think, the things I wish. You touched the hearts of all you met, and the hearts of all of us. You’re on my mind when I wake, throughout my day and while I try to sleep. My only hope is that you are happy wherever you are because were all real sad down here. Your heart has a home in mine and you’re with me everywhere I go. I miss you so much it hurts. Much Love. Andrew Winston
They went on and on with it for a while and eventually John won, 11 cups to 10. We then proceeded to go outside and continue ballin’ but Lang could hardly move. He went outside and just layed on the grass for so long while the rest of us laughed and played basketball. Rory was playing ball no problem and said, “John may have won the battle, but I’ve won the war.” It’s just one of those stories that sticks with me because I always loved playing ball with Lang. He’d always just score over me with his jump shot and
steal the ball with his long arms and huge hands. I’m going to miss the days playing ball at my house, and even more, playing ball with him at Old Post Road. I’ll never forget the rhythm he had doing his “dance” as he dribbled toward you in one on one, crossing it back and forth. Hoop at OPR is never going to be the same.I wanted to write something deep and meaningful about how important John was, but I know that everyone already knows that. You all knew John, knew what a great guy he was. I just thought I’d share those two stories, as maybe something not all of you knew. I miss John, I feel for his family, I feel for the rest of you who experiencing this same hurt. Peace & Love, Jon Galanis
On December 13th, 2002 I realized that the one thing that you can never take for granted in life is friendship. I met Lang when I was in middle school, and he played basketball with my brother. He was authentic. I have never met anyone like him. He had a passion for everything he did in life. Whenever I saw Lang I could not help but smile. He was like my other big brother. I can’t even count how many times he would wrap his long arms around me; pat me on the head and say, “What’s up Sista Sha?” You’ve never truly been hugged unless you’ve been hugged by him. He was the one who told me that I could go to the Berkfest with my brother and him. Jimmy stepped in and said no of course. They were going to sleep in a tent for three days and listen to the music that made them both so genuinely happy. Just hanging out with him and talking or listening to music were the best of times.
He had an incredible family life. Until I met Lang I never knew how much love and respect one could have for their parents. I never knew how close of a relationship was possible between siblings.
Lang, if you are listening, I love you with all my heart. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about you, the memories that I have of you keep a smile on my face. Thank you for all that you have ever done for me. You changed my life forever. I will see you again someday in Heaven. Shannon Kelly
have ever met. He invited me to buy tickets with him and a bunch of guys to go to a concert junior year. When I had no table to sign up to sit at for the junior prom, he gracefully invited me to sit with him. He was always there for me with a joke or a slap on the back when I needed it. It was the same with everyone else I know. A quick story: I visited him at Providence freshman year of college, and we were at a party and I mad some unwise decisions, and ended up getting very sick. So rather than leave me to fend for myself, he stood by my side while I was sick for two straight hours, listening to me tell him I was going to die. And he reassured me, I would be fine and that I would see my family again. And when I passed out, he carried all 200-plus pounds of me back to his dorm, and laid me down to bed. And I woke up the next morning, he was still sleeping so I said goodbye real quick and left. And that was the last time I ever saw him. To be able to give someone comfort when they truly needed it is a gift very few have, and John possessed it. I’m just sad I never was able to return that comfort to him in return. He was everywhere he needed to be, and then some. John was there the first time I ever got drunk junior year of high school. John was right next to me in the limo and then at the table for the junior prom. He was in 75% of my high school classes. And he’s right here now with me as I type this. He’s with all of us.
He affected so many people’s lives; it’s hard for me to imagine many more people who have had such a positive influence on me, than John. Though it will be a while until we see him again, I have enough memories to fill that space.
Whether it be 3 months, or 75 years; he’ll always be with us, and we will always be with him. John Langley was an amazing person whose life ended before he reached his peak. It now can only be wondered at how many more people he could have touched and how much more good he could have brought to the world. We are all better people for having known him, and we can all take comfort in each other and help others the way John did while he was alive. John Curley
This is probably the hardest thing that I have ever done. How can you sum up a friend and the impact they have had on you in 
words. Words can’t even describe John Langley. But, if you were to describe John, only the best words come to mind such as caring, fun loving, down to earth, and the greatest friend anyone could ever ask for. There was something about John that drew people towards him and once you knew him, you knew that he was a genuine and kind person. Since John and I had been friends, we had so many memories that will never be forgotten. I can remember one instance when I was traveling to Maine. Since, his grandparents live in Maine and his family was also going up that weekend, he offered to ride with me so that I would not be by myself for the drive. It turned out that his family was only 10 minutes behind us in their air-conditioned vehicle, but John and I had a great time together sitting in traffic, listening to the mix tape that he made for me, and talking, in my hot, humid car. It was the best ride ever. Thank you John for everything you have made me, I will never forget you and your beautiful smile! Krystal Bertoni
When often I sit down and start thinking about John I wonder why. Why John Langley. The only reason I can think of is that God wanted that kid so badly. If I were God, I’d want John too. He was honestly quite possibly the best person I ever knew.
If there were 6 billion John Langleys on this Earth there would not be a single problem except how to contain the overwhelming happiness.
I try to look on the bright side of this tragedy. When I do I realize that John brought with him a message and his death was the exclamation point. John showed us how to live. With his passing and the incredible outpouring of affection it becomes clearer to me that it was John’s purpose in life to make those around him better people. It is our responsibility to keep John’s legacy alive inside each and everyone of us by embracing at least one part of his perfectly genuine character. I am and will continue to be a better person because of John and I know the countless others that he touched are better for knowing him too. If I receive only a small fraction of the love and number of caring people when I die compared to what I witnessed for John, then I would consider myself a lucky man. Don’t ever let the light that John brought to all our lives fade away. 
and open the door. It was late and I guess he was tired so instead of coming down to get the door, suddenly John was yelling “Yo Jill,” out the window. I looked up and laughed to see him up there. He threw down his wallet to me so I could swipe his card to get into the dorm. I ended up keeping his wallet for a few days by accident but he didn’t mind. He just laughed when I called him the next day and told him his wallet was in my purse, and told me not to worry about returning it right away. I loved the fact that John and I went to the same college. It was so comforting to have a friend that I never had to say goodbye to going to and from school and home.Whenever I see his roommate, I wait for John to be right behind him; I wait for him to pass by me as I walk to class; I wait for him to show up out on the weekends. I just wait to hear his voice again, to hear him telling me that I’m dreaming. This world lost someone who was going to change things. All I can ask of everyone reading this is to live your life as John did. You all know what I mean. In his life he did change so many of us, you have all expressed this. I hope we can all come together and dedicate our lives to live every day in the way that John did, to carry on his spirit and change the world in the way he changed all of us. Please continue to keep the Langley’s in your prayers. **John – Every day I wish you were here. I know we’ll be reunited someday in Heaven, but until then, keep watching over us. Much Love, Jill Namey
There is not enough people can say about John Langley. I have so many great memories of John ever since we met when he moved right next door to me when we were about 6 years old. I remember hiding behind a pile of wood with my brother while the Langley’s moved in. I remember that day like it was yesterday because it was the beginning of one of the best friendships I’ll ever have. John himself was the nicest person I have ever met. He rarely spoke badly of another person and I don’t think there was one person that John hated or was hated by. He was the type of kid that was so easy-going and so open to other’s ideas and views. He accepted everyone for who they were and never prejudged anyone. I envy John and I wish he were still here so everyone could learn from him because everything he said was worth listening to.
was humble, in a way he was what every girl dreamed of, someone open-minded, gentle, loving, good looking, and smart. He found peace everywhere it seemed, never saying anything negative, even on the worst of days. I remember at his funeral being so sad in that cold snow. All I could do was hope he was warm and comforted. As these thoughts were in my mind, I suddenly felt the warmth of the winter sun shining through, as if to reassure me that he was feeling that same warmth. John was an angel set out to touch the lives of those who were lucky enough to have known him. If you ever saw one of John’s smiles, he did his job.John Langley has touched my life in so many ways. When I first moved to town I was on John’s soccer team, and he did everything to make me feel welcome. Even at such a young age, John showed how much he cared for other people. I will never forget the times we spent playing basketball, working together at Rebel Hoop camp, or just hanging out together at Jon Galanis’ house. I was deeply saddened at the loss of John, yet, the memories and stories that he has left with all of us will last forever. – Joe McDermott
When I think of John I will remember his smile and the way that he made everyone around him smile. He had the knowledge of what it means to be a friend and to instill love on everyone he met. It still doesn’t feel as if he is gone because his spirit will truly live on in all of us. It seems so cliché how people speak of him and say how he was the nicest kid you could ever know. But if you knew him, you know it is not a cliché but the truth behind him. This doesn’t seem fair or right and questions will go on forever wondering just why something like this has to happen. Those questions will never be answered in my opinion. It is up to us to decide what to do with it. To decide to go on and keep John in our minds as we wander through life is a start. But to take from this the importance of friends, especially your old friends with whom you have journeyed with thus far, is not something to pass by. This goes to show we are not as invincible as we may think and that it could have been anyone; so its up to everyone to do everything they can in the time that they are given…you will always be remembered John by all who loved you. Rest in peace my friend. -Amy Fitzgerald 
first time in years because they were associated with him and they happen to define who he was. Through all of this I’ve learned that I will never have one specific memory or story of John Langley. He has made such an impact on me that I will carry a part of who he is with me for the rest of my life. He is the nicest person I ever met. He was the kind of kid that connected with everyone in one-way or another. Since we met in third grade John was the ideal friend; the person you knew would always have something nice to say or something interesting to talk about. Even as we grew older and further apart, John never changed the way he treated a friend. Just being in his presence made everyone feel welcome and loved. He had a certain quality about him that made everyone want to be his friend. He will be missed but not forgotten, because he lives in so many of us. I am honored to have known such a person. –Kevin Goguen John was my most favorite person. Actually he was most peoples’. He made me wonder about different things in life, deep things. Although John was rather soft-spoken he had much to say, and if you listened to him, and heard what he said you must have been touched, as I have been. I loved John’s big hands, they were comforting, and unique as he was. I wouldn’t consider John my best friend, but he was a good friend to me, although we were totally different people, we respected, and cared for each other very much.
I only hope that John can see how much he affected my life as well as many others. I think if John were able to talk to us, in his John voice, he would tell us that he was okay, and to live our lives to our fullest, and to be happy with whatever we end up doing in life. John, thank you for who you were, and I really do strive to even be somewhat like you. I miss you, and love like WHOA. –Kerry Donovan
In all my life I have never known somebody who was as sincere and kind as John. If we could at least try to live our lives with the same outlook as John, we could all be better people. I am sure of this. I can honestly say that I have never heard John say anything negative to hurt another person. I don’t even think that he had it in his heart to think it either. Even when he was hurt by others, he would still never try to hurt them. I am not just praising the good that I have known in John, I am praising the only John that I know. I can only try to be the person that I saw in John. -Sean Elwood
house and I was only about 15 minutes late. When I got home, He sat me down and said he had some bad news for me. I had no idea what he was going to say. I thought maybe one of my grandparents died or something. But the news was worse. He told me that John Langley died. Suddenly the phone call and the time of night meant nothing at all. The death of a friend hits too close to home. I didn’t go to high school with John, but we had a lot of the same friends. We played pick up basketball, hung out during the summer, and had some laughs. Even in this little amount of time, I quickly understood what a loving, friendly, sweet kid John was. He always had a smile, a quick joke, and a presence in a group of people. I especially appreciated his outgoing personality because I didn’t go to school in Walpole and sometimes it was tough for me to fit into a big group of people, but he always made me feel welcome. He truly was a great kid, and I know he’s in a great place looking down on us. One love John, I’ll never forget you. – Chris Kenney There are no adequate words to explain John’s influence on the lives around him. He was without a doubt the most genuine person I have ever met. Everything that he did came from his heart. Everyone could see his enthusiasm for life. He loved everything that he did and everyone around him and he was not afraid to show it. His hugs are one thing I will always remember, as I am sure most of us will. His huge arms would embrace you and he always had a way of making everyone feel special. John knew what it meant to live and a part of him has been left within each one of us that we will carry on forever. We love you and miss you. *Heaven has received another angel* 12/13/02. Teresa Landgraf
Lang. . . What can one really say about the nicest, most down to earth guy one could ever meet? I can not truly write anything that would do him justice, but I can speak from my heart about John, and the way he personally touched me, in the same way he touched countless others.John: I am grateful for the times we spent together, and all you did to help me here at PC. I miss you so very much, but I know a part of you lives on within my heart, and everyone else’s you touched along the way with your caring and loving nature. Oh how we all wish we could, just one more time, receive one of those Langley hugs (you know, where you take those abnormally long arms and gently touches those giant hands to our backs) I love you John, you will be dearly missed by all. –Dan Colleran
I think everyone would agree with me when I say that there isn’t enough words in the dictionary to describe the type of person John was. I know I didn’t know him as well as other people, but he touched my life along with many others. When I found out of his passing away, I thought it was a terrible joke. I didn’t believe it was true. How a life so precious and special had been taken away from us so soon. It was
something that I or any of us had ever thought would happen. He was so full of life and had so much more life to live and more lives to touch. He will be missed by many but never forgotten. RIP John I miss you very much and think about you often. – Tina Smith
John has certainly left lasting memories with those who knew him. His great smile and easy-going and caring personality were some of the greatest qualities about him that I will never forget. It was always so nice to see John around campus because he would always stop and talk, and see how things were going. Conversations with John were always amusing, and they gave me a sense of home, which I needed sometimes during my first semester at school. John, you will be missed, but you will remain in the hearts of all those you’ve touched.–Meghan O’Toole
It seems not that long ago we were all sitting there on that hot sunny day waiting to graduate from High School. It seems like just the other day I was passing you the ball and you would glide to the basket and score with ease. It seems like just yesterday we were all sitting around having a blast, all of us laughing with each other. Not a day passes that I am not reminded of you John. You have had and still do have a great influence on my life as well as others and for that I thank you. You accomplished so much. John I truly miss you and I know you will look after all of us. RIP -JDL- 12/13/02 –Chris Navis
John, I’ll never forget a few days before it happened, I was telling one of my school friends what an amazing person you were. While I was trying to convey what a perfect person you were (and I actually used the word perfect) without making you sound like a mythical character, you IMed me. It just seemed so right for me to actually be thinking of how wonderful you were while I was talking to you for what would be the last time. When our conversation was over that night, I remember thinking to myself that you seemed so happy. I’m always thinking of you and will never stop loving you, John. Don’t forget about us down here; we’ll never forget about you. -Liz Steele
always a friend. I saw him for five straight years first thing in the morning, in homeroom. When our High School got renovated, at the start of senior year, John and I were separated during homeroom. We were moved into a new homeroom and are seating arrangement no longer allowed us to sit next to each other. I was very upset that I would no longer be able to chat with John every morning during announcements etc. He now sat on the other side of the room. I missed the conversations that we had every morning. We would always have time for a nice “hello”, but we no longer had that same time which we both valued.All of us know how valuable time with John was. Time spent with John would sooth the soul. He would make you feel relaxed and genuinely happy. John has now been separated from all of us. This time it is a million times worse than him being across the room. I am glad that I have the memories of John that I have. I feel extremely fortunate that I was able to know John. Times spent with John will never be forgotten by any of us. John was just that kind of a man. He was just that special. Thank you John, thank you. –Daniel Stephen Langmead
I always considered John to be like a brother, and I can’t even tell you how many times I referred to him as my “big brother John”. He was the one who sat with me forever when I got in a fight with my friends and was crying, and he always cared about what was going on with me no matter how dumb it may have been. He always told me “you can’t take life for granted,” followed by his own performance of “The Dreaming Tree” by Dave Matthews Band, when I would complain, and it seems that he is still teaching me that same lesson. I really don’t know what I can say about him- he was incredible. He was too good for this world. He was my big brother, and I love him. Saying goodbye really isn’t something I can do right now, because I still feel he’s with all of us… and we’ll all be with him again someday. I miss you John, and you’ll always be in our hearts and on our minds. -Andrea Alberto
Putting my thoughts into words has always been one of the hardest things in the world for me to do. So this attempt to talk about one of the greatest people I have ever met is not easy. John, you were always the most outgoing and friendly person to me, as well as to many other people. You had a million friends, and all of us loved you for a million different reasons. There were so many days that your kind words or your laughter turned a bad day around for me. I never told you how much I appreciated that…I wish I had. Even now that you are gone I do not know how to express just how much you meant to me in words. But I believe right now you’re in Heaven looking down on us, and you can hear all my thoughts about how wonderful you were as a friend. I may not be able to formulate the words to express this, but I do think about you all the time.I think about how much I loved being your friend and being a part of your life here on earth. I would love to say more, but the feelings I have are too immense for mere words to describe, so I am not going to even try. I know you hear my thoughts and prayers, and I know that you realize from those thoughts just how much I loved knowing you and being your friend. I will miss you and all that you brought into this world every day for the rest of my life. Thank you for making my life richer by knowing you, John. One Love. –Ben Hagberg
John was that guy that everyone wanted to be. The one people looked up to and respected. He had leadership that others envied and a smile that would turn a dark day bright. Who could ever forget those arms open awaiting a warm embrace? Whatever John did it was straight from his heart. Looking back, I wish I could have spent more time with him. But he still had the ability to touch each and everyone one of us. He always made sure to say hi to everyone he passed in the hallways; so friendly and sincere. There is not a day that goes by where he is not on my mind. I keep his family and friends in my prayers and hope they can find faith through these rough times. We’ll miss you John, forever you will be in our hearts…Even though we lost a friend, Heaven gained an angel. –Kate Bohan
would go over to his house and shoot hoops with Chris Bergen. Those were some of the best times of my life. What was better than shooting hoops with your two best friends? Nothing. But things sadly change. I’ll never forget freshman year in high school. We had steadily grown apart, there was no reason for this; I can only guess because we were in different classes and started playing different sports. I’m sure you all know that John happened to break his leg the very last day of freshman year. What most of you don’t know is that right before that happened John and I had been playing a one on one basketball game. Surprisingly, John gave me two uncontested three pointers to try to make and I made them both. I was acting all cocky and thought I was a big shot because I was beating him and I was letting him know it. Big mistake. Lang turned to me and said in a serious tone, “You’re not going to score again”. I thought he was insane. I was hitting every shot I was taking. Well, it turns out that I didn’t score one bucket after that…and I don’t recall him missing one either. I had never seen anyone just shoot lights out like he did to me on that day. I was trying my best to block his shots and score myself but I just couldn’t even do it. Everyone has talked about how John could cheer up a person, but he taught me that day to be respectful – not only of your opponent if you are playing a game, but of people in general. When our game was over, he did not try showing off or shoving it back in my face. We just slapped hands and said good game to each other. I couldn’t believe it. Anyone else I knew would have shoved my cockiness right back in my face. But John was different. He was respectful of me and everyone else. He was humble. He was very competitive during any game he played but he knew that games were not the most important thing in life. Family and friends were. The love he shared with all of us is unmatched. John had a quality that we must all strive for and look to him as a guide to become a better person. It is a tribute to how he was raised by his parents and I’m sure it is how he taught his younger sister and everyone else he knew because everyone in the Langley family has all of John’s outstanding qualities. I miss you kid. I believe in my heart that we will meet again one day. I know you’re our Guardian Angel who watches over all that you knew. We love you. –Shane Kelly
What can you say about Lang? He was the man. No matter how long it was between meetings, you still felt like he was your boy. Rest In Peace Lang…ONE LOVE. –Greg Dayton
It’s hard to put in words exactly how much I miss John and how much he meant to me and to all of us. He was the kind of person that whether you knew him for 2 days or 2 years he could leave a lasting impression on you. He had a way of making feel extremely comfortable in his presence and he possessed a childlike spirit that made you smile every time you saw him. I remember this one night we were watching one of his favorite movies the Burbs and I will never forget it. He was so excited watching the movie that for each funny part he would prepare me that a funny part was coming up and it just resulted in us laughing even harder. He told me how him and his littler sister use to watch this movie together and compare the neighbors in the movie to their own neighbors. He was always talking about his family; you could tell they meant so much to him. It was those little things that made him such a special person. The way he treated everyone as if they were his best friend. The way he showed genuine compassion and consideration to all things. I know looking down on us he is probably smiling with appreciation, yet probably thinking he doesn’t deserve this because he was such a humble person. Yet, John – you deserve every word and every thought… and even though we couldn’t get tickets to Phish I’m still going to find a way to go! I miss you and I only wish I could have gotten to spend more time with you. Much love. –Steph Bielagus
Well I never knew hard it would be to lose a friend, but know I do. John was the most laid back person I have ever met. In fact, he almost made me wish I were a little calmer at times. He always looked at the bright side of things and I think it always put a smile on whoever’s face he was with. I will never forget driving to see String Cheese with John and Jimmy. I see that weekend in my head a lot. Also it is hard to get over that I will not be able to shake that huge hand one more time. It was way too early man. I miss you John and I hope you’re in a peaceful place. – Brett Thomas
Before I even met John, I heard so much about him. His friendliness, intelligence, how he cared for other people and how much of an all around person he was. And once we got to high school, I witnessed that myself. So many girls from Bird couldn’t wait to get to high school because everyone wanted to hangout with him. He made an effort to be a friend to everyone and we all loved him for it. We are all very lucky for having known a person like him. He touched so many people in a way that is so hard to describe. He was such an amazing person. We will miss you John! You will be in our hearts forever! -Kim Malin
“For some life lasts a short while, but the memories it holds last forever.” -Jeff Donovan
John Langley. There are so many great things I could say about him, but the one thing about him that I loved the most is that he was like a brother to me. He was always there when I needed him. He was a wonderful friend always, without fail. That was John. The same John that I had driving hours with when we were 16, and who had the best collection of T-shirts ever. The “camper of the day” shirt was my favorite. John was just one in a million. His attitude towards others and towards life was positive and inspiring. He always had a smile on his face and was ready to give you a big hug. Besides his kindness, I also greatly admired his love for his family. His parents and two sisters were so special to him, just as he was so very special to us. We are all so blessed to have known such a great person as John. He was truly a gift from God. He has left me with so many wonderful memories, and I will love him always. –Katie Oleskey
So many memories. So many memories that you can’t even have a thought in your head that doesn’t spark some kind of story or image that you can remember so vividly that it’s almost brought to life again. You want time to just heal the pain, but time will never make you forget. There’s far too much to remember. –Greg Thomas
On December 13, 2002 the world suffered an undeniable loss. John made everyone he met smile…he was truly the most amazing and genuine kid I have ever met. I am unbelievably sorry for the loss that everyone who knew John has had to experience…especially his family and close friends. He was taken way too soon…but I feel privileged to have known John for the short five years I did. I only wish I had gotten to know him better. I am confident that John’s love, passion, honesty, and great influence will go on forever. I promise that you did not leave this earth in vain John, many have learned from you. You will remain everlastingly in our hearts… -Elicia Niland
We all miss you so much buddy. –Chris Bergen
John Langley was many things to many people, and because of that it is hard to get at exactly what he was to me. Picturing John, I see his smile, his slow walk, his legs hitting the tops of desks because they were so long, his open arms, and I hear is calming voice. He loved life and everyone that he shared it with. John was probably one of the most compassionate and sincere people I have ever had the privilege to meet. He brought out the best in people, and expected that everything from them should come simply from the heart. It’s hard to describe John without sounding like a cliché, but they all apply. He would light up a room the moment he walked into it, and he really knew how to talk to people and get down to their soul. It’s difficult to convey the impact John had on me, but after every conversation I had with him I would just feel completely comfortable. Everything just seemed ok and somehow made sense. He just had that affect on people. I always describe John as the one every girl was in love with and every guy admired. He was always there for me whenever I needed a favor, and I hope he knew that he could count on me as well. I regret the fact that we never really did get to hang out last semester like we always said we would, but I certainly will never regret meeting him. Everybody that knew him loved him; I was one of them. I’m sorry for anyone who never had that opportunity. He was truly an amazing individual. –Julie Abdelahad
John’s work was far from done and already you can see how much of an impact he has made and how he has received some of the best compliments I have ever heard or read for anyone. He truly is one of the greatest people you could ever get the chance to meet. I just wish I got the chance to really get to know him, I wish I got to make him laugh more and vice versa. It made me feel good whenever I would make John smile or laugh. But now I have met the “complete John Langley” through all your stories and memories of him. This should be inspiration for us all to better our lives and better our relationships with each other…. Oh and by the way, you were right man, the Beatles didn’t sing that song “All the young dudes.” Bowie had me fooled for sounding like Lennon. Many of your friends have songs for which the sounds and lyrics will remind them of you every time; this song will always make me think of you every time I hear it. God bless you John. -Your friend Mike Ricciardelli –“Father McKenzie”-
It has taken me so long to do this…and what have I come up with? Nothing! It is just too hard to come up with words to even express how I feel about John. What more can you say about one of the nicest, most sincere, and funniest guys? I knew John almost my whole life and he was always such a good friend and person to those around him. My favorite memory of him was when he offered to give me the pins from his knee surgery. He kept them in this little tiny jar and told me I could have them as a souvenir. Looking back I wish I had taken them, even if there was some knee fluid still on them! It was the little things like that that John did that made a difference to the people around him. I honestly do think, no matter how corny this may seem, that John was sent here for some reason; a greater purpose…maybe to remind us all to cherish what we have and to be a better persona just like him…He will be forever in our hearts and forever missed! –Terryn Giampietro
There were plenty of things to remember about John because he had plenty of things going for him, but the thing I remember best about Lang Bang was his awesome sense of humor and incredibly quick wit. Whenever someone would rip on Lang he would always flash that great smile of his, and laugh with yea, but right after that he would come back and rip you with something even better, in which case his smile would be grow even bigger and his laugh would grow even harder. I never told him but he had the best come backs I’d ever heard. What I admired most about John was that he was his own man; nobody could ever make him do anything he felt was wrong, and if you were doing something that he felt was wrong he’d step in and let you know because he looked out for his friends. I know this because he had helped me out when I needed it, and I’ll never forget that. The kid had it all, super smart, great looking, athletic, hilarious, and most importantly he was genuine as anyone ever could be. I’ll always miss him and more importantly I’ll always remember him and what he gave to everyone who was lucky enough to have known him. -Michael J. Hartnett
I think it is difficult to put into words all of the things that come to mind when I think of John Langley. I find it unfair and incredibly tragic that I am writing this as a tribute to him…John was too young to die. My first memory of John was when he was running for a member of the class government, he was campaigning in our freshman world history class. It is no wonder that my first memory of John is his running for class officer, as he was always extremely involved in extracurricular activities. Ever since then, John became a good friend of mine who always had a friendly word to say passing by or who wouldn’t mind listening to a problem that was on my mind. John’s personality was amazing. He was funny, caring, smart, friendly, athletic, modest, easy to talk to, and so many other incredible things. I have always gotten more excited to know that John was going to be at a party or event where I was going with friends – he always made things more fun than they would normally be. John accomplished more in his short life than many people are able to achieve in a lifetime. He was an inspiring person to everyone he met while he lived, and he continues to be an inspiration to all who hear about him and his life from now on. It is truly no wonder why he was voted “Best All Around” in our graduating class, no one I know is more deserving or more worthy of that title. The most ironic thing about John, is that no matter how many times you told him that he was as remarkable as he was, he would never believe you. He was just too modest for that. One quote that seems fitting, “Some people come into our lives and quickly leave, some stay awhile leaving footprints on our hearts and we are never the same.” John influenced my life in a way that I will never forget. I miss him very much. -Lisa Shevory
No one will disagree with me; Lang was one of those kids that just made you smile. I’ll never forget hanging out with him summer of 2001. We’d all go to Galanis’ house a lot, just mess around on the trampoline, playin’ wiffle ball, and just hanging out. One day, Lang, Jon, Rory, and myself were doing nothing exciting except having a Hawaiian punch drinking contests. Then, Lang goes “let’s go”. Gets in his car and starts to leave. Rory gets in his own car and Jon and I get into Jon’s car. We all just started following Lang. He took us all over town and it became a car chase. We went to Westwood, to the center, to Allie’s house, and then he lead us back to Jon’s. It was so random and at the time I didn’t think anything of it. But I’ll remember that forever. He was one of the best kids this world ever saw. In our hearts John, you haven’t gone anywhere. Love and miss you man. –Your friend, Luke Dent.
“You were the one that made things different,
You were the one that took me in,
You were the one thing that I could count on,
Above all, you were my friend”Rest in peace John, we miss you. -Cindy Harrington
Not a minute goes by that I don’t think about you kid. Nothing could ever replace the times we’ve had together, good or bad. I always respected and loved you for the fact you weren’t afraid to be yourself, and that you helped so many others realize how important that was. You truly have made a difference in my life. You may be in a better place but we all would do anything to have just one more time with you. Much love to your family, I promise we’re do everything we can to help them through this. You’ll never be forgotten and you’ll always be alive in our hearts now more than ever. You know what your boy said, “everyone deserves music, sweet music”, and I’ll continue to use the music to spread the love you showed to all those you encountered. Keep an eye on me until we reunite. Peace and love…Your boy gooney. –-Geoff Monroe
I have lots of memories of John, most of them being his physical presence. We would compare the sizes of our hands and laugh at the fact that his were twice the size of mine. In French class, he would always seem too tall for the desk, with his legs scrunched up touching the desk and he would have to hunch over to do his work. He would walk around school with his own casual, slow strut, always smiling. He never seemed to be mad or upset about anything. I remember John liking music so much. I only went to one or two concerts with him, and he loved every second of them. He made me a tape with songs by “jam bands” and was so excited when he heard that I liked it. Almost every girl I know had a crush on him at one point in high school. He was one of the friendliest, nicest, and funniest people I have ever met, and he never failed to put a smile on your face. -Colleen Cleveland
One Love to the Sauce Money creator. You’re in our hearts forever, Lang. –Dan Bielenin
John Langley…what can I say…he was an amazing person. He was the most genuine person I had ever met. He touched the lives of so many people and continues to do so today. His smile and big heart will live on in my memory forever. “Friends are together when they are separated, they are rich when they are poor, strong when they are weak, and – a thing even harder to explain – they live on after they have died, so great in the honor that follows them, so vivid in the memory, so poignant the sorrow.” Rest in peace John, you will be missed by many. –Kristen Dionne
Because I never went to school with John, I didn’t know him as well as I would have liked. When I first met John I was instantly taken by sincerity. He was not a stranger for long. I immediately saw the John everyone knew and loved. Shortly after our first meeting, I developed a crush on him; me and every other girl. Everyone, girls and guys, seemed to be drawn to him. Being friends with him was a natural next step, and an effortless one. Although our paths drifted apart, I still felt like I had found a friend in John. Even years later, after not seeing him for long stretches of time, when our paths would cross again, he was as easy to talk to as ever and his smile had not changed. While I regret not knowing John better, I am very grateful for the short time that I was able to spend with him. John will be thought of, and missed everyday. –Meredith Jalkut
I guess the question most people have asked themselves is ‘Why John?’ When someone your own age, someone you saw everyday for four years (eight years for JMS graduates), is suddenly gone, one cannot but help to ask if fate could have swung in a very different direction many weeks ago. However, I refuse to let “What If” questions dictate my life, so I force myself to focus on what I know for sure. In this case, what I know is that John Langley was simply a great guy.
From meeting you at Huskey Basketball Camp in 5th grade to forming Walpole High’s greatest stable, The Four Horseman, with Casey and Curley, to having you as a classmate in numerous classes, I cherish the memories that we were able to share together. Horseman 4 Life – WHOOOOOOOOOO!!! -Michael C. Berry
To tell the honest truth, I can’t remember the first time I formally met John. I do, however, have a memory that sticks out quite distinctly in my head. One summer, I, like all the other girl basketball players in town, was at Rebel Hoop Camp. I can’t remember exactly why John was there, but he was just the same. He had hurt himself, his leg if I recall correctly, and I was sidelined with a pulled hamstring. I remember sitting on the sidelines, talking to John in the sweltering, summer heat for hours. We talked about lots of things: school, basketball (who would have thought?), and people we knew. It was nice talking to John, mostly because while we talked, it felt as though we were old buddies, not just two gimps who happened to talk to each other because we were stuck on the sideline together. His charisma and warm personality gave me a sense of comfort, something that was hard for me to come by at that age. I never forgot that. Since then, he’d smile and say hello while passing in the hall, compliment me on my field hockey game, tell me how good my presentation was, and was always sure to shoot me a smile when he came into Bickford’s with all of his friends. Though such acts were small and simple, they were heart warming nonetheless. That’s what made John so special: he knew how to make people happy, even those he wasn’t particularly close to. He went out of his way to make people feel good about themselves and prided himself on putting smiles on their faces. That’s how I know that he hasn’t actually left us. Because whenever I think about John Daniel Langley, he still manages to put that smile on my face. –Kendra Zysk
When I first started thinking about this I almost didn’t want to write it. I mean what can you say about John at this point that hasn’t already been said? It’s true that all the clichés one can think of apply to him so I’m not going to bother with that. I guess I’ll just share a few of my memories of John over the years…I first met John in seventh grade when I made the travel basketball team. I really wasn’t that good and I was probably lucky I made the team. On the other hand, John was and had been the best player on the team. I remember being nervous at first that I would make mistakes and embarrass my self in front of the better players like John. But once I got to know John I was amazed. He was one of the most humble and down to earth kids I’d ever met. He made an effort to be my friend and make me feel comfortable…I remember being at Geoff Monroe’s house around that time with John and a few other kids from the team. We were about to watch a movie and John happened to leave the room. Geoff’s mom mentioned to Geoff that John wasn’t allowed to see R-rated movies. It was weird but when I heard this at the time I didn’t laugh…I respected it. Well we watched the movie with John anyways and it wasn’t a big deal. At the time I’m not sure if John knew that we knew about his mom’s rule, but somehow I don’t think he would have been embarrassed. He loved and respected his family and he wasn’t afraid to admit it. I only wish I could compare him in this sense and I’m sure others feel the same…During basketball practice our junior year John broke my nose. I was covering him, or trying to at least, and he made a quick move to get open. He swung one of his long arms around me, only his elbow caught me square in the nose. There was blood everywhere and it hurt like hell. But all I could do was smile. I mean how could you get mad at John? To this day I haven’t gotten it fixed and my nose is still a little crooked. So basically every time I look in the mirror I can think of John…and smile…Rest in peace buddy. -Brett Fagan
John did this thing with his hands. I don’t know how to explain it but they were always moving whether it be drumming his books or spread wide to wave hello. Every word that flowed from his mouth was said with a genuine tone and a gentle smile. These are my memories of John; little noted observances and lived experiences. It goes without saying that he was unlike any other. He wove threads into our lives each day without a conscious thought, but then again I guess we could say that about each of us. With this tragic loss, my eyes have grown wide. I hope that we can each see how we have affected each other over the years. That we can appreciate all that we were, all that we are, and all that we will someday be. John was able to appreciate and see the synoptic picture of life. I look forward to the day I can live like that. John, thank you for being an unforgettable teacher and an irreplaceable friend. We miss you each and everyday, may angels lead you in. -Kate Keller
Bang Sauce, what’s good? All I have to say is good times good times…you still owe us a rematch at Old Post…me, money, Hartnett, Kels, Peckam and you Bang…oh yeah McDermott can ref…hahaha…this time it’s going to be different though…my game is real nice…I got this new cross that even those long arms couldn’t handle…you’d be impressed…hahaha…just bangin’ John…I never go to bed without some words to you…. and so many prayers to your family…keep an eye on me buddy…I love you bro!!! RIP -Tom McCarthy
The John D. Langley Foundation 