Douglas C. Hemmings

1954 - 2018

Douglas C. Hemmings

North Wolcott - On Thursday, November 8th, 2018. Doug Hemmings, Loving Husband, Father and Grampy of two Grandsons unexpectedly passed away at the age of 64. He leaves a big hole in the hearts of all who loved him.

Douglas Cartter Hemmings was born March 2nd, 1954, in Plainfield, New Jersey to Ernest T. and Kathryn B. Hemmings. He spent his formative years in New Jersey but his family had a very long history with the Newbury-Bradford area and his parents bought and restored a house in W. Newbury, Vermont. Doug then moved to Vermont in 1972 and graduated from Oxbow high school in 1973 and went on to college. Although his father's illness and familial obligation cut short his college experience, Doug was a wholehearted believer in a lifetime of learning and he continued his education both in his chosen career field and in other interests.

He met Debbie and her two year old son Jonathan in 1975 and became a family soon thereafter. They started Rubber Bubbles Balloon Co. in 1978 and toured New England and New York selling helium balloons for celebrations and music festivals often dressed as clowns. The concession business morphed into the current now well established Rubber Bubbles Balloon & Party Supply Store. After many years building the business and their life together Doug retired the clown makeup to pursue another love - advocating for low income Vermonters as his family was among them. His careers included Head Start, AmeriCorps, Community Action (now called Capstone) and on to his present position as Resident Coordinator of Highgate Apartments in Barre, VT.

He introduced many important programs to the residents, such as Gardens for Learning, Good Food - Good Medicine, Funnery (Shakespeare for Kids), Race to Read and CLIF, just to name a few. He himself was an avid reader and gifted writer. Doug will be remembered for his quick wit and his kind and compassionate spirit. He had a book in progress in his head which he has taken to Heaven.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his Sister and Husband Art & Carol Like and also his Brother Thomas Hemmings. He is survived by his wife Debbie, his son Jonathan and Wife Corynn and two Grandsons Matthew and Noah Hemmings also his mother-in-law Flo Hartman, his older brother Bruce Allen Hemmings, and his many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers Doug would be very happy if everyone would take the time to look up on YouTube "PLAYING FOR CHANGE" and get a concept of their mission. He always felt music could bring the world together.

Please join us for a celebration of Doug's Life at the Barre Elks Club from noon to 4PM on December 1st, 2018.

The family was assisted by the Elmwood-Meunier Funeral Home.