The Life of Paul Mayberry
A Legacy Defined by Education and Empowerment
Paul Mayberry was more than an educator and coach; he was a cornerstone of his community. This memorial scholarship was established to ensure that his lifelong commitment to mentorship and academic excellence continues to touch the lives of students for generations to come.
Paul was born on January 24, 1968, in Steele, Missouri to his parents Maple Mayberry and John Rankin. He was raised in the Southside of Waltham attending the Fitch School and South Junior High School.
Paul graduated from Waltham High School in 1986, playing football, baseball and throwing the shot put for the track team. For his athletic achievements, he is a member of the Waltham High School Hall of Fame. After high school, Paul graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. While at UMASS, he was a 1st team Football All-American leading the Minutemen to a Yankee Conference Championship and playoff appearance during his senior year.
After receiving his Bachelor's Degree from UMASS, Paul went on to earn a Master’s Degree from Brandeis University. He then went on to work with youths of all ages, landing him a job as a counselor at Waltham High School. As a high school counselor, Paul coached football at Watertown High School, Bentley University, and Framingham State University.
In 2003, he was appointed Head Football Coach of Waltham High School, and held this position for 8 years. For his work in Waltham, Paul was named the New England Patriots High School Coach of the Week in recognition of his team's 2004 victory over Brockton High School on Thanksgiving Day.
Paul was a fun loving person who lived his life out loud. He was great to be around and loved by all.
He leaves behind his beloved mother Maple Mayberry of Hudson, his father John Rankin of Birmingham, Alabama, and his loving brother Kevan Mayberry, and partner Tara Mayberry, of Clinton. In addition, Paul leaves behind his partner of over 10 years, Elizabeth Medeiros of Hudson, and her two daughters, Cyan Prather and Sarina Prather. Beyond family, Paul leaves behind an army of friends from Waltham and UMASS who will miss him dearly.
Once Paul and his family moved to Waltham, they became part of the close-knit South Side community that helped shape so much of his life. Growing up in this diverse neighborhood gave Paul the opportunity to cross social circles and build friendships that would last a lifetime. With his larger-than-life personality, natural charisma, and gift for conversation, Paul quickly became well known among classmates at both the Fitch School and South Junior High School.
Over time, this tight group of South Side friends blended seamlessly with students from the north and central sections of the city, creating a unique and lasting bond among the Waltham High School Class of 1986. Decades later, many members of that class remain incredibly close, united not only by shared memories but also by the profound loss of their dear friend, “Maybes.”
Today, this same group of lifelong friends continues to lead the effort to preserve and honor Paul’s legacy. Through their work, they hope future generations—especially those who never had the chance to know him personally—will come to understand the extraordinary impact Paul had through his friendship, compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Waltham community.
Southside and WHS 1986
UMass
In the fall of 1986 Paul took his football talent to western Massachusetts to begin his career at the University of Massachusetts
Football Coaching Career
After an outstanding career as an All-Scholastic player at Waltham High School and an All-American at the University of Massachusetts, it seemed only natural that Paul would one day give back to the game that had given him so much. That opportunity came through a lifelong influence—his former middle school teacher, coach, and mentor, Paul McGovern. Under Coach McGovern’s guidance, Coach Mayberry began his coaching journey as the offensive line coach at Watertown High School, launching what would become a distinguished 20-year career.
In just three seasons, Coach Mayberry played a key role in revitalizing a struggling program, and his impact quickly drew attention at the collegiate level. Hall of Fame coach Peter Yetten offered him the opportunity to join Bentley University as offensive line coach, where he later took on the role of run game coordinator. Over six highly successful seasons, Coach Mayberry helped develop multiple All-Americans and contributed to several conference championships, establishing himself as a respected and effective leader.
In 2003, Coach Mayberry returned home to Waltham High School to succeed legendary coach Dan Koehan. There, he built a cohesive and talented coaching staff composed of former teammates from both Waltham High and UMass. Together, they guided the Hawks through a period of sustained success. Among many highlights, Coach Mayberry was recognized by the New England Patriots as High School Football Coach of the Week following a memorable Thanksgiving Day victory over longtime rival Brockton.
Despite these accomplishments, ongoing health challenges ultimately required Coach Mayberry to step away from his role with the Hawks. Demonstrating his enduring commitment to student-athletes, he later concluded his coaching career at Framingham State University, returning to his first passion—coaching the offensive line. By 2015, he made the difficult but necessary decision to prioritize his health, allowing him to continue supporting students at Waltham High School through his work in the dropout prevention program.
Coach Mayberry’s career reflects not only success on the field, but a deep and lasting dedication to mentorship, resilience, and the development of young people.
Life as an Educator in Waltham
Dedication
Unwavering commitment to his students' growth, both in the classroom and on the football field.
Paul’s commitment to education began soon after graduating from University of Massachusetts, when he felt called to return to the community that had provided him with so many opportunities. This time, however, he returned not as a student but as a counselor, educator, and mentor dedicated to giving back. Early in his career at Waltham High School, Paul worked as a business teacher within the college preparatory program. He quickly recognized the diverse needs of students and devoted himself to creating innovative programs that supported struggling learners and helped them remain connected to their education.
Paul demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. Through the development and support of peer mentoring opportunities, he helped strengthen student relationships, increase engagement and belonging, and provide meaningful social-emotional and academic support. His work empowered students to build leadership, communication, and collaboration skills while contributing to a more compassionate and supportive learning environment for all.
While dedicating himself to his students, Paul also continued his own education, earning his master’s degree from Brandeis University at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management. This experience deepened his commitment to advocating for underrepresented students and expanding educational opportunities for those who faced barriers to success. Working alongside fellow educators at Waltham High School, Paul helped spearhead alternative pathways that enabled students to remain engaged in school and ultimately earn their high school diplomas.
For more than twenty years, Paul was a constant and reassuring presence in the building. He reached out to student-athletes, struggling students, and anyone in need of encouragement or guidance. Through his steady support, compassion, and resilience, Paul became a source of strength for countless young people, continually inspiring them to persevere, believe in themselves, and challenge themselves to grow. His impact on students, colleagues, and the Waltham community will long be remembered.
Join us in empowering the next generation of Waltham graduates.
Leadership
Leading by example, Paul instilled leadership qualities in every athlete he coached.
Impact
A lasting influence that transformed lives through mentorship and rigorous discipline.