Dorothy Agranwitch

1928 - 2014

Dorothy Agranwitch Jan. 19, 1928 - Apr. 19, 2014 STONINGTON - Dorothy "Toddy" Agranwitch, 86, of Stonington, and formerly of Norwich, died on April 19, 2014, at Avalon Health Center in Stonington, Conn. Dorothy was born in New London, on January 19, 1928, to Saul and Anna Agranovitch. Dorothy grew up in Norwich and attended Norwich Free Academy, graduating with the Class of 1945. She then attended Smith College in Northampton, Mass., where she obtained her B.A. and M.A.T. (Master of Arts and Teaching). She attendedOxford University and received her Sixth Year diploma (an advanced course of study for qualified educational leaders) from Harvard Graduate School of Education. She received a John Hayes Fellowship, as well as NDEA Title IV Graduate Scholarship. In 1950, Dorothy began teaching at Norwich Free Academy, where she accepted a position as teacher/docent in the Slater Museum. While at the Academy, she taught U.S. history, English and humanities. She was also the director of archives for the Slater Museum at NFA. She served as advisor to the National Honor Society. In 1979, Dorothy wrote "A Brief History of the Norwich Free Academy," that was printed by Academy Press, referencing events that included the founding of NFA in 1848 as an endowed free school and the devastating fire of 1978. After 40 years of a distinguished career in teaching, Dorothy retired in 1993. Her fellow teachers and admiring students described Dorothy as a dedicated, compassionate, concerned, nurturing and thoughtful teacher who always had a kind word, good ideas, good techniques and good strategies. Dorothy's remarkable loyalty, dedication and compassion inspired the History Department to create the Dorothy Agranwitch History Prize, funded by the History Department. In retirement, Dorothy was a garden volunteer at Mystic Seaport, and enjoyed sailing, summer visits to Nantucket, and her continued interest in museums and academia, as she assisted Connecticut College professors with various classes. She also spent time with her book club, where she enjoyed the company of many old friends. Dorothy was a faithful member of the Calvary Episcopal Church in Stonington, Conn., where she served and led in a wide variety of church activities and had many close friends. Dorothy's caring and dedicated ways touched many lives, including those of students and colleagues. Although Dorothy was the last of her family, she leaves many dear friends. A Memorial Service in celebration of Dorothy's life is planned for Wednesday, May 7, 2014, at 11:00 A.M.. at the Calvary Episcopal Church, located at 27 Church Street, Stonington, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Calvary Episcopal Church. To leave a condolence or memory, please visit mysticfuneralhome.com