Jana (Golan) Cavanaugh, 79
Jana (Golan) Cavanaugh, 79, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, in Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Born on March 13, 1947, in Rochester, New York, she was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Carol (Bingley) Golan.
Jana was a proud graduate of The Harley School and later earned her degree from Wheelock College. Her passion for education led her to a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher at Rochester Memorial School, where she inspired countless young minds for 27 years with her dedication and love for learning. Beyond her role as an educator, Jana also served as a town assessor for Rochester for 39 years, was a member of the Women's Club, a Friend of the Library, a Library Trustee, and served on various other boards and committees, demonstrating her commitment to her community and its well-being.
Jana’s life was deeply enriched by her family, especially in her beloved role as “Nana,” which brought her endless joy. She is survived by her brother, Tim Golan; her sons, Matthew Cavanaugh and his wife Paula Cavanaugh, Douglas Cavanaugh and his partner Tammy Noonan, and Brian Cavanaugh and his wife Jessica Cavanaugh. She was a cherished grandmother affectionately known as “Nana” to Richard, Nicholas, Logan, Keith, Caeden, and Seamus and a proud great-grandmother to Charlie and Sam. Jana was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Carol Golan, and her daughter-in-law Teresa (Terry) Tansey.
Jana is also lovingly remembered by her closest friends and her RMS teaching family, whose endless support and care meant the world to her.
In addition to her professional accomplishments and devotion to family, Jana found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid reader who loved immersing herself in books. A passionate sports fan, she cheered enthusiastically for the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins. Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom into every aspect of her life—she touched the hearts of all who knew her with kindness and wisdom.
Jana’s legacy is one of love—for her family, her friends, her community, and the many lives she influenced through teaching. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
May the memory of Jana bring comfort to those who mourn her passing. A visitation will be held on Thursday April 23, 2026, from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 50 County Road, Route 6, Mattapoisett. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday April 24, 2026, at 10 AM at St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church 124 Front St., Marion, MA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jana’s memory to The Friends of The Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library. Donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 69, Rochester, MA 02770 or dropped off at the library.
