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Douglas Henderson Obituary
After graduating from Fitch High School, Class of 1965, Doug attended Central Connecticut State University getting his bachelor's degree majoring in both English and history and graduating in 1970. Doug then attended Wesleyan University from 1974 to 1996, where he earned two master degrees (Master of Arts) in liberal studies plus his sixth-year degree. Three degrees! Doug's advisor realized this, and honored him for this accomplishment by having him lead the procession of graduates that year to their seats. Doug was an English teacher for 38 years starting at Robert E. Fitch Junior High School, then Robert E. Fitch Senior High School. While at Fitch Senior, he was advisor to the school newspaper, The Scarlet Tanager. Students and colleagues alike appreciated his dry wit! Doug also served as vice chairman and secretary of North Stonington's board of education while his daughters were students at North Stonington schools. In his spare time, Doug could always be found with a book in his hand reading in his recliner. Doug also enjoyed woodworking and had made many improvements and additions to his home. He also enjoyed golf with some of the Fitch High teachers. During his time at Wesleyan, he used his love of photography and writing, by photographing New England churches and writing a collection of short stories for his sixth-year degree.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 4, at the North Stonington Congregational Church, 89 Main Street, North Stonington. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local library, or a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Douglas Henderson
Nicola
April 30, 2024
Mr. Henderson was my favorite teacher. I often find myself reminiscing about his class and how much I enjoyed being in it! He was truly one of the best! I´m lucky to have been a student of his. X
Debbie Guild
April 29, 2024
I had an English class with Mr. Henderson. He was a good teacher. Condolences to the family.
Olivia Kowalski (aka Olivia Cortese)
April 29, 2024
Sorry...I want to add one more thing. I am still processing the loss of one of the first people outside of my immediate family to truly see me as a student and as a person. Mr. Henderson was the type of teacher who truly believed that their students were capable of achieving incredible things. Mr. Henderson gave me a place to be my complete self and encouraged me to continue pursuing theater. His class was my favorite time in high school.
Olivia Kowalski (aka Olivia Cortese when you knew me)
April 29, 2024
Oh, Mr. Henderson... I was just talking about him last night at dinner with my mother-in-law and I looked him up to see this. What an incredible man he was. I had him as an English teacher when I was a sophomore in high school. I will never forget working with him after school on an essay prompt. He was committed to making sure his students understood their assignments and had guidance. Plus, his insights were remarkable because he was one of the smartest men I have ever known.
However, my favorite memories were reading full length plays in class, like Antigone, Death of A Salesmen, 12 Angry Men. Mr. Henderson recognized my passion for theater and always had me read the main characters. Thank you, sir. You will be missed.
Donna Bright Straw
April 29, 2024
It´s been a lifetime since I last saw you, as you led a toast to my parent´s 25th anniversary. You were gracious and funny. You were the first (east coast) college graduate in the family, and your mother and father were SO proud of you!
It seems that your life was well-lived with a wife, children and grands .
RIP cuz.
Cathy Blaisdell Johnson
April 28, 2024
Mr. Henderson was the yearbook advisor at Fitch Junior; I was one of the assistant editors (1975-1976). Learned a lot from him; I will remember him fondly as an all-around great guy and teacher.
Dave Coxe, class of `91
April 28, 2024
Rest in peace, Mr. H. I enjoyed your class when I was at Fitch. You were one of the good ones for sure.
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