Sean Molloy Redlands, CA Death: This weekend, the Redlands East Valley High School community experienced a devastating loss. Mr. Sean Molloy, a remarkable educator, mentor, and friend, passed away, leaving behind a legacy that words alone cannot capture. His passing has deeply impacted students, staff, alumni, and families alike. He was not just a teacher — he was a guide, a cheerleader, and for many, a lifeline.
From the classrooms of REVHS to the hallways and beyond, Mr. Molloy was a light. His energy, compassion, and unwavering belief in his students made him the kind of teacher every young person hopes to have at least once in their life — and the kind of teacher every parent hopes their child is lucky enough to learn from.
Mr. Molloy had a rare gift — he truly saw his students. He recognized their potential, even when they couldn’t see it in themselves. He had a way of encouraging students to dig deeper, to try harder, and to believe that they were capable of great things. Whether in the context of English class, Academic Decathlon, or simply a hallway conversation, he created a space where students felt safe, heard, and valued.
Many students have spoken up in recent days about how Mr. Molloy helped them through some of the darkest times in their lives. He didn’t just teach literature or coach academic teams — he listened, he cared, and he stood by his students when they needed someone the most. He made school feel like a second home, a place of growth and understanding.
One student shared, “He knew us better than we knew ourselves sometimes. He could tell when we were struggling and never let us go unnoticed. He always reminded us that we mattered.”
On Sunday evening, the front of Redlands East Valley High School was lit by the soft glow of candlelight. A vigil, organized by students, brought together hundreds of people — current students, alumni, parents, teachers, and members of the community — all united in grief and love for a man who gave so much of himself to others.
The vigil was an outpouring of emotion and remembrance. Students stood up to speak about Mr. Molloy’s kindness, his humor, his passion for literature and learning, and the safe haven he created in his classroom. Others quietly lit candles, hugged one another, and cried — for their teacher, their mentor, their friend.
It is clear from the turnout that Mr. Molloy made an impact that rippled far beyond a single school year or lesson plan. The love and gratitude felt for him were profound and tangible in the night air.
Sean Molloy was not only a beloved teacher — he was one of REV’s own. Born and raised in Redlands, Mr. Molloy once walked the very same halls as the students he would later teach. He was a Redlands East Valley graduate, which made his return to campus as a teacher all the more meaningful. He didn’t just invest in a school; he invested in the community that raised him.
Returning to teach at his alma mater, he embodied the full-circle beauty of giving back. He knew what it was like to grow up in Redlands. He understood the pressures, the potential, and the unique experience of being a Wildcat — and he used that understanding to make deeper connections with his students.
Words from the community have poured in — each story a small glimpse into the tremendous life Mr. Molloy led and the hearts he touched.
- “He never gave up on us — even when we gave up on ourselves.”
- “Academic Decathlon was where I found my voice, and Mr. Molloy believed in me every step of the way.”
- “He stayed after class to talk, helped me with college essays, and always had an open door.”
- “Mr. Molloy made us feel like we weren’t alone.”
These are not rare testimonials — they are echoed over and over. Mr. Molloy had a profound way of making each student feel seen, valued, and inspired. He balanced challenge and compassion, humor and depth, always encouraging his students to push boundaries while staying true to themselves.
Grief is never easy. For many students — especially those who were in Mr. Molloy’s class this year or involved in the Academic Decathlon — the loss is deeply personal. For parents, it is heartbreaking to see their children mourn someone who played such an important role in their lives.
In these moments, connection is crucial. Sharing stories, memories, photos, or even a simple “I remember when…” can help begin the healing process. If you knew Mr. Molloy — as a colleague, friend, or student — please consider reaching out, whether in person or online. Your words could comfort someone else who is hurting.
REVHS has begun making resources available for students who are grieving. School counselors, support staff, and trusted teachers are standing by to help. There is no timeline for grief — no “right” way to feel — and it’s okay to be sad, angry, confused, or numb. What matters is that no one walks through this alone.
Mr. Molloy believed in the power of education, the beauty of literature, and the importance of kindness. In honoring his memory, we can each carry forward the values he embodied.
- Be kind. Always.
- Take time to listen — really listen.
- Encourage someone who’s struggling.
- Find joy in learning.
- Create safe spaces wherever you go.
And perhaps most importantly: believe in others, especially when they struggle to believe in themselves.
That’s what Mr. Molloy did, day after day.
Final Thoughts
Mr. Sean Molloy’s passing leaves a hole in the heart of Redlands East Valley High School — a space once filled with his laughter, his insight, and his boundless support. He will be remembered not only as a teacher, but as a champion of students, a pillar of the school community, and a bright light in the lives of so many.
As we mourn, let us also celebrate the legacy he left behind. Let us support one another, share stories, and strive to live with the same compassion and purpose that he did.
Rest in peace, Mr. Molloy. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.
