The high school lost custodian Rich Freeman on March 19, 2026.

Described as a “Renaissance man,” Freeman had a deep passion for culture, art and history. He grew up in Newton, spent 18 years working at the high school and was a gifted painter who donated much of his work to the high school’s halls and classrooms. In 2024, School Within a School (SWS) chose him as their Honorary SWS member at graduation. Freeman formed connections with many across the community, and those who knew him remember his deep curiosity and kindness.

Librarian Shelley Mains got to know Freeman well during evening shifts in the library. They frequently discussed books and history.

“He was somebody who didn’t stop being curious about life and the world when he became an adult,” Mains said. “He was continuing to grow, learn, open his mind to different ideas and he liked to talk about that. So it was never dull when he came by.”

Head of School Anthony Meyer said he also interacted frequently with Freeman, more in some years and less in others.

“He was a very kind soul, and he didn’t have a bad word to say to or about anybody. I also loved that he had this other life and interest that I wouldn’t have known about unless he talked with me,” Meyer said. “It was neat to know that he was a painter, and that’s something he was really passionate about.”

Painting was one of Freeman’s interests, and an integral aspect of his life. According to head custodian Jim Mellett, Freeman was passionate about each of his pieces and they all had an interesting story behind their creation. His work was exhibited in art shows and galleries around the area. Head athletic trainer Alex Jyzk, who said he was close to Freeman, said he hopes his work can continue to be displayed, and would love to see it in the trainer’s office.

Freeman’s artwork leaves a physical mark on the community, and social worker Paul Epstein said the many lives Freeman touched will continue his legacy.

“As long as the people that were on his route, the people that he talked to and emptied their trash, as long as we’re here, I think he’ll be remembered as someone who made this place a better place to work at,” Epstein said.

Staff members from all corners of the high school responded to Meyer’s news of Freeman’s passing in email. In his email, social studies teacher Michael Normant noted Freeman’s distinct ability to create connections.

“Rich was an incredibly interesting and social guy. He had some great stories to tell and was always interested in hearing about anyone’s life or their experiences,” Normant wrote. “When I first began at BHS and was coaching basketball here almost 20 years ago, I was often around in the evenings when the building was basically empty and [I] had no idea where I was going. Rich was so welcoming and showed me all the places I needed.”

Mains said the numerous reactions to Freeman’s passing point to his impact in the community

“Sometimes, sadly, when somebody dies, you find out how much they meant to a lot of people. So, since the announcement came out, a lot of people started [replying to the] BHS faculty email, just the ways they knew him and the kinds of conversations they had with him,” Mains said. “I realized that he had touched a lot of lives here. That was a really sweet thing to find out.”

Meyer said Freeman will be missed, and his kind presence will always be remembered.

“He was underrated in terms of what his interests were outside of school, and he was a kind presence, eternally kind to others and really thoughtful,” Meyer said. “He was willing to drop anything to have a conversation.”