Susan G. Magod, a beloved teacher who was retired after decades of service at Manalapan High School, has died.
Magod passed away on July 8 following a short illness, according to an obituary posted online by the Brunswick Memorial Home, East Brunswick.
Magod was born in New York City in 1942 and lived in East Brunswick for the past 48 years.
A graduate of Rowan University (formerly Glassboro State College), she taught English and journalism at Manalapan High School for 31 years and was a recipient of the school’s Teacher of the Year Award. She served as the faculty adviser to the student newspaper, according to her obituary.
Following the announcement of Magod’s passing, many of her former students took to social media and posted messages about the veteran educator. Among their comments were the following:
• “She was a wonderful English and homeroom teacher at Manalapan. We affectionately called her ‘Mama Magod.’ She was always supportive and smiling.”
• “I could have never pursued a career in media without her.”
• “She was a wonderful caring person.”
• “I wasn’t fond of a lot of teachers (and I don’t think too many were fond of me), but through my immaturity and general nonsense she saw something in me that inspired me to do better … and ultimately isn’t that what a teacher is supposed to do? RIP Mrs. Magod and thank you for your confidence and support. I am grateful.”
• “Oh this hurts my heart. Such a gifted academic mind who knew exactly how to reach her students.”
• “Mrs. Magod was the absolute best teacher and person – ever. Incredibly kind and generous soul.”
• “She was a wonderful teacher and person. She inspired me to teach.”
• “She was my favorite teacher in high school! She helped me to love to write and journal.”
• “Great teacher! The journalism concepts and principles she taught me stick to this day. I credit her for why I am a news junkie today!”
According to her obituary, throughout her life, Magod maintained a reverence for the power of the written word. She was an avid reader and upon retirement she participated in many local book review groups.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, John I. Magod; her daughter, Ellen Roszkowski; and two grandsons.
According to her obituary, a celebration of Magod’s life with family members, friends and well-wishers will be held in the very near future at her East Brunswick home.
