Vincent Jerome Messina

Vincent J. Messina, born in Watertown Massachusetts 94 years ago to Frank and Mary Grace Messina and was the first-generation grandchild born at home. He went peacefully home with God who held him close all of his life on Friday January 23, 2026 in Columbia SC.

Following discharge from active duty with the United States Navy, he graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and the University at Bowling Green Ohio on his way to being the Teacher and Coach he aspired to be. He continued his education at Boston University and the University of Rhode Island for post graduate studies.

He completed Officer Candidate School at Naval Station Newport, RI while attending University. The Navy encouraged him to change his previous proficiency with aeronautical electrical systems in Navy Air to Navy Surface Fleet Officer Entering the Naval Reserve as an Ensign. The Navy said if you’re in the Navy you should be on ships.

His Civilian Career while serving in the Reserve began with teaching Physical Education and Sports specializing in the inclusion of disabled children. His research and efforts were published in prevailing educational peer reviewed journals. He began a lifelong devotion to Kids and Sports, coaching every sport but with great love and success in Football. He receives letters and phone calls to the present from former players and students telling him what a difference he made in the progress of their success in life. He credits God for this never himself. Career advancement led to the positions of Athletic Director and High school Football Coach. Returning to Active Duty during the Vietnam War he became the New England Military liaison officer for Casualty Assistance to families. He continued to Coach Football. With further advancement in Education Administration, he was public High School Principal in Lincoln RI, K-12 In St. Johnsbury, Vermont and K-8 in Waterford, Vermont. Especially thought of by students and teachers He was awarded The National Distinguished Principal of the Year from Vermont and accepted the presentation in Washington, DC.

He also served as the corporate nationwide coordinator for Staff, Management, Technical, Mechanical, and Sales Training at Fairbanks Scales in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Then God told him to return to public school education. He was prevented from retiring 5 times by the calls of surrounding school districts for his help. At the age of 75 this Principal was volunteering to chaperone the students to ski and play soccer as part of their Physical Education headed by the parents of students. He joined the school band and the choir to encourage the kids to stay the extra mile. At graduation he was the Master of Ceremonies and a band member. His students presented him with an official Eagles football jersey inscribed with his name.

Mr. Messina remained an active participant in civic, charitable and professional organizations throughout his career and retirement. He never really retired. He was the President of the Military Officers Association for many years at Naval Station Newport, RI. He was a member with this dedicated group of Retired Officers from all Branches of Service who changed social into Service. These men and women contributed enough fund raiser proceeds to Operation

Stand Down for homeless Veterans to allow them to suspend their own efforts to focus on their Veterans. Mr Messina attended operation "Storming the Hill" Biannually with members nationwide to meet with congressional representatives for maintaining and improving assistance to the Military and Veteran service persons they represent.

Mr. Messina was predeceased by spouses Mary Messina and Corrine A Messina and a brother Anthony Messina. He is survived by spouse Linda Messina who thinks he was Legendary in his own time.

He was the devoted and loving father to 10 children, many grand and great grandchildren, nieces and close cousins who loved him dearly.

Services are slated for 1/31/2026 at Our Lady of The Hills Catholic Church, 120 Marydale Lane, Columbia SC. Commencing at 10:30am with visitation at the church entrance, with Mass at 11 am. Followed by a gathering in the Family Center for friends and family.

Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington DC at a later date.

For your remembrance consideration please include the Cayce/West Columbia Rotary Club Scholarship Foundation PO Box 3268, West Columbia, SC 29171.