A Mass of Christian Burial for Brother Warren Abel, C.F.X., who was principal of Xaverian H.S., Bay Ridge, from 1982 to 1993, was celebrated Aug. 10 in the chapel of St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Mass.

A Xaverian Brother for 63 years, he died Aug. 7 at the Brothers’ residence in Danvers, where he was residing. He was 80 years old. 

A native of Resurrection parish, Gerritsen Beach, Brother Warren, formerly known as Brother Melvin, attended Regis H.S., Manhattan; Xaverian College and Catholic University.

In 1962, he was assigned to Xaverian H.S. to teach science, English and religion until 1964. He returned in 1968 when he was named assistant principal.

At Xaverian, Brother Warren oversaw the construction of the Technology and Research Center, initiating the Capital Campaign that funded the project. 

Known as a skilled teacher and administrator, Brother Warren is remembered for his ability to create an annual schedule for 1,400 students and 90 faculty members without the aid of a computer, as well as the kindness and devotion with which he treated students, colleagues and friends.  

The Class of 1993, the last to graduate with Brother Warren as its principal, dedicated its yearbook to him by stating: “You may no longer be our captain, but you will always be our shipmate.”

After completing his service as principal, he remained at the school, working as the attendance clerk in the school office before officially retiring due to failing health in 2002.

A memorial service for Brother Warren will be held at Xaverian H.S. in the fall.