HART, Mich. — Days after the unexpected death of Hart principal Troy Moran, he is being remembered as a great dad, a passionate leader and a shining light in West Michigan.
Moran died suddenly Saturday when he had a heart attack during a run, according to the Oceana County Press. He was only 46 years old.
Moran was the principal of Hart High School since 2021. Hart Public Schools Superintendent Mark Platt said he was friends with Moran for more than 20 years.
"So this is more than losing someone you work with. This is losing a friend," he said.
Classes were still held Monday for the district. Platt said both faculty and students are working to come to terms with Moran's death.
"I would use two words: Numb and disbelief," he said. "We've spent a lot of time with the kids and the staff today, and that's been the general consensus. You know, there certainly were a lot of tears, a lot of hugs. But we're very glad we ran today because people needed to be around each other."
Hart High School has had counseling available for staff and students amid the sudden loss.
Moran had a "contagious personality" and a laugh that could light up a room, Platt said.
"I mean, this was a guy that when he walked into the room, you were glad he showed up," he said. "Just a really special guy. Now I'm smiling because I know right now he's looking down on us smiling."
Moran also worked with other districts in West Michigan and previously served as the principal of Montague High School for four years. Platt said his ability to form connections with students made him good at his job and appreciated in the schools.
"He just was able to unite people. He was able to connect with kids, regardless of their background. He was just able to connect with every kid in that school in a different way," Platt said. "He truly paid attention when you were talking to him. He was like, you know, really listening to you."
Moran leaves behind two children, Elle and Reagan. Platt said he was a great dad.
The district began holding a porchlight vigil Sunday for Moran. Residents were asked to remember him by turning on their porch lights, as he "led and lived shining a light," Platt said.
Anyone interested in participating is asked to turn on their porch lights at 8 p.m. throughout the week and until the funeral takes place.
"He was the guy that just made it happen here at Hart. He's just a great guy. Heck of an educational leader," Platt said. "Tremendous loss...Crying and smiling about this guy all at the same time."
Funeral arrangements for Moran are expected to be announced Tuesday.
A GoFundMe page has been launched to support Moran's daughters. You can donate and leave a message to the family here.
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