LINDEN – Marengo Academy Headmaster John Holley’s second stint with the school ended abruptly Friday as students and faculty learned yesterday morning of his sudden departure from the school.

According to MA board member Coleman Carlton, a long-time friend of Holley, the former headmaster tendered his resignation Thursday night, effectively immediately.

“He did not get fired,” Carlton said of Holley.

Holley reportedly intended to resign from his position at the end of the current semester. His sudden departure Friday came as a surprise to all involved.

“The kids just love him,” Carlton said. “As the kids were finding this out, they were crying. They love Mr. Holley.”

Holley’s two terms with the school spanned a total of more than three decades of service.

“The school is going to go in a positive direction still,” Carlton said, “but we’re going to miss him.”

The board appointed Jonathan Lindsey, who coaches baseball and teaches senior government and economics at the academy, as interim headmaster until a search is completed. Multiple attempts to reach Holley and officers from the academy’s board proved unsuccessful Friday.