NJ Teacher, Dad Dies Suddenly On Vacation, 50

Leighton was a devoted husband to his wife, Liz, and a father to his children, Henry and Mary, his obituary says. Born in Manhasset, NY, and raised in Manhasset Hills, Leighton studied at Fairfield University and Columbia University's Teachers College before becoming an educator, his obituary says. He worked as a language teacher with the Cliffside Park Board of Education, teaching Spanish to elementary students and English to adults, the obituary says. Leighton also studied abroad in Spain and taught English Language Learners in Guadalajara, Mexico, and in England, according to the obituary. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Barbara Bracco said Leighton served the Cliffside Park School District for 20 years. "Throughout his career, he touched countless lives with his kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication," reads the campaign, which had raised more than $11,000 as of Monday, March 23. Click here for Rich Leighton's complete obituary and here to view the campaign for his family. Click here to follow Daily Voice Jersey City and receive free news updates.