Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1952
DIED
2019
FUNERAL HOME
John MacDougall Obituary
John was born to Dr. Archibald Duncan and Margaret Phillips MacDougall, on April 29, 1952 and was raised in Groton, Conn., where he grew up enjoying one of his lifelong favorite places, Shennecossett Beach Club. After attending school at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, John returned to Groton and the Byles-MacDougall Funeral Home, where he worked selflessly and with great compassion for 41 years.
It was through his cousin at Byles that John met the love of his life, Alice Ellison, to whom he was married for 33 beautiful years. John was most proud of the legacy he leaves behind in his two daughters, Alexandra MacDougall and Kimberly MacDougall Eaves, and in his son-in-law, Ben Eaves. As a father, John encouraged big dreams, drove cross-country at the drop of a hat, and never missed a game. He and Alice built a world of love and John spent his lifetime spreading it far and wide, always helping those around him and going above and beyond for others.
John was particularly known as someone greatly devoted to his friends and for his remarkable ability to always make new ones. He was also known for his involvement and service within his community. John was affiliated with, and held leadership positions in, a wide range of local organizations. Of the many, he was most involved with the Shenecossett Beach Club, Niantic Sportsman's Club, and his local Homeowner's Association, having served as President of all three.
In addition to Alice and their children, John leaves behind his sisters, Judith MacDougall Blair and Susan MacDougall, and has reunited with his predeceased sister, Marnie MacDougall, on a beach somewhere with a not-too-challenging crossword puzzle in hand. He also leaves behind his most adored mother-in-law, Anastasia Ellison, cousins, nieces and nephews all across the country, and his many friends, particularly those at the Sportsman's Club and the "Applewood Gang," who were more like family than friends.
John will be sorely missed, but always remembered with a smile. A gathering to celebrate his life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Jan. 19, 2019 at Langley's Restaurant, 28 Lamphere Road, Waterford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory can be directed in his name to The ECHO Cancer Foundation at 330 Washington Street, Suite 220 in Norwich, CT. Please visit www.byles.com to share a memory or sign the guest book.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John MacDougall
Sponsored by Byles Memorial Home - New London.
Mike Xirinachs
February 7, 2019
John's kindness and professionalism is unsurpassed....just a great person...so sad to loose him...so great to have known him.
Betsey Wornom Craft
January 24, 2019
I grew up spending a lot of time in John's parent's house, after he had gone away to school. I overheard so many stories about him that I felt I knew him far better than I did! He was always so thoughtful and caring, personally and professionally, especially when he 'convinced' me I really did need to get in the car at my father's funeral in Arlington! John will be greatly missed by many, especially his 3 girls, who brought a twinkle to his eye whenever he spoke of them. Sending comfort during this very difficult time.
paul hurlock
January 20, 2019
It is with great sorrow that kim and I have heard of John's passing, and would like to extended our deepest sympathy to the entire family, john was an outstanding humane being, he was always available to me on more than one occasion, and will always be remembered. God bless.
Paul and kim hurlock
Ann Horan
January 18, 2019
I was so very sorry to hear of Johns passing. My condolences to all of the family. May he Rest In Peace.
Katie Beal
January 17, 2019
John was wonderful helping us with my father's (Bruce T. Beal's) arrangements. They "had coffee together" during the time between his death and his burial at Arlington. John and Alice drove him to D.C. in the minivan, from which the casket (which John helped us pick out) was laid onto the caisson. You could hear my dad's buttons bursting with pride against the lid of the coffin. Thanks to John and Alice for making his passing so wonderful. John will be truly missed. Love and hugs to your family.
January 17, 2019
Heartfelt prayers go out to all Macdougalls. Only knew John from a few encounters at Judy's house. His warm character was greatly noticed. Hugs to you all, dale tedesco.
Kenny Mike
January 14, 2019
I met John at the Sportsman's club a few years back. He was always a welcoming person and easy to get to know. He was fun to work with. He will be missed. RIP
Tom Snow
January 14, 2019
John was the most compassionate person I have ever met and I will miss him very much.
BRUCE VANDAL
January 12, 2019
So sad to hear of John's passing. John was an inspiration to all who came in touch with him. He will be remembered as a great sportsman and a dear friend whom we all will miss dearly. God Bless
Rance Carli
January 12, 2019
Very sad to hear of Johns passing. My family and I pray that god will give his family strength, peace and solace and bless them in their bereavement. John will be missed by all who knew him.
Ramzi Dagher
January 12, 2019
Compassionate and friendly neighbor
You will be sorely missed
Bob Chester
January 10, 2019
John was so very helpful and patient when my dad passed away in 2016. His kindness will never be forgotten. My prayers and thoughts go out to the MacDougall family during this difficult time.
John Stratton
January 8, 2019
John helped me handle the passings of two close friends over the years, and his compassion for the families was welcomed and sincere. As a sportsman, he brought flair and wit to recreational and competitive activities over many decades. My condolences to his family and to his many other friends.
Ron Michaels
January 8, 2019
I will always remember Johnny Mac as one of the most kind and selfless men I have ever met. He is a true gentleman and an avid sportsman and I am sure that his legacy will live on for many, many years.
Sandra Sinkowski
January 8, 2019
To John's Family,
We are heartbroken. John helped us through the loss of our parents with strength, grace & dignity. He was one of the special people that God put on this earth to help others through their most difficult times. We considered John our friend.
He will be sorely missed by family, friends and the community.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you as you mourn the loss of this true gentleman.
With our heartfelt sympathy,
James & Sandra Sinkowski
Groton, CT
Phil Tuthill
January 8, 2019
He'll be sadly missed
Frank Connelly
January 8, 2019
I remember John as a great funeral director. When I last was with John he typically helped me to come to terms with his illness. John had a talent of helping and supporting others with their loss. This is evidenced by the many comments of gratitude by the many families he served.
Adria Vail Cohen
January 7, 2019
To the MacDougall Family,
I will always remember John's kindness when I suffered a loss many years ago. He was a very compassionate and understanding person; I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I also remember John from the years we all grew up in the city; rest in peace.
Mark Schneider
January 7, 2019
John was one of the good guys. I worked with him and Don and Reid with the Beth El team many times. He will be missed. My sympathies to his family.
David Sdao
January 7, 2019
John always represented all that is good in life without compromise; a devoted husband, father and dear friend to those fortunate to share a part of his life. It is no longer about who John was anymore as he now lives within our hearts, our souls, our very being. We now need to look at who we will be because of John's impact on our lives and hope to live them with all the grace dignity and love that he showed us. Rest gently, my friend.
Linda Younger Walker
January 7, 2019
We are so very sorry to all of John's family and friends for the loss of such sweet guy. He was such a wonderful man and has always been so compassionate and caring. He was so wonderful and helpful through the loss of my parents and as a family friend, he was there for our family support. I am saddened he was taken from his loving family too soon. Our thoughts and prayers too all.
January 7, 2019
John always represented all that is good in life without compromise; a devoted husband, father and dear friend to those fortunate to share a part of his life. It is no longer about who John was anymore as he now lives within our hearts, our souls our very being. We now need to look at who we will be because of John's impact on our lives and hope to live them with all the grace dignity and love that he showed us. Rest gently, my friend.
David Sdao
Doug Reed
January 6, 2019
John was a great and dear guy. We grew up not far from each in Eastern Point. Father Dunc was our beloved family doctor; house calls and all. John was always among the nicest of guys. He was wonderful with my mother's arrangements less than 2 years ago. How quickly and unexpectedly he moved on. A sad thing. My warmest condolences and regards to all the MacDougalls.
Linda Gaudet
January 6, 2019
This just breaks my heart. John was there 100% percent, so caring, following the death of my mother, and then my husband Al last year. I just cannot believe this.
Grace Blanco Maguire
January 6, 2019
To the MacDougall Family I was so sorry to hear of your lost. John and Donald was big help to the Blanco Family when my parents pass. John was a very caring person. He will be miss by many. May he Rest in Pease God Bless the MacDougall Family
Peg Ackley
January 6, 2019
John was always a pleasure to talk with and second to none in his profession. Prayers to his family, he will be missed by many.
Pamela and Vincent (Teague ) Champlin
January 6, 2019
We were so sorry to read about the loss of John. He was a compassionate, caring man who helped many people through some of the most difficult times in their lives . Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family and all who loved him. RIP
The Dray Family
January 6, 2019
God bless you John and your family. Loved your Dad as my MD growing up and how much your family cared for the entire community. My brother was closer than I to you but this is still shock. Be blessed and in peace
Crina Tarasi
January 6, 2019
So sorry for your loss, Alix! Our very sincere condolences! I am without words for your loss!
Pam Eagles-Devincke
January 6, 2019
So sorry for your loss Judy. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Love Pam
Julia Culbusky
January 6, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Bill Pedace
January 6, 2019
I was very sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a kind man, a true professional and always a gentleman. He will be missed by many. My sincere condolences to the family.
Bill Pedace, Albuquerque, NM
Jim and Donna White
January 6, 2019
Our condolences to the family. He is a wonderful man. May you rest in peace. Prayers to the family.
Jim Shake
January 6, 2019
To John's Family and Friends,
I had the great pleasure of coming to know John several years ago at the Niantic Sportsman Club. John was a tireless worker, dedicated to whatever cause he took up, but most of all a true gentleman. He will be missed by many. My condolences go out to you all. God Bless John, go in peace.
susan billing
January 6, 2019
It was a pleasure working with John after the loss of our mother. We were grateful for his calm and compassion during our difficult time. I would also like to extend condolences to John's family as well as the team at Byles MacDougall on behalf of the Gales Ferry Cemetery Association. John's advice, patience, guidance and sense of humor has been invaluable over the years.
daniel zwilling
January 6, 2019
rest in peace
Janice Ginsberg
January 6, 2019
Our friendship with John (and his family) over the past 25 years has been a bright spot in our lives.
We will always remember his kindness, compassion and humor. He will be missed, but remembered always.
Carrie Vezina
January 6, 2019
Ali and family, so sorry for your loss of John. I only met him a few times, but found him to be very kind and compassionate, and he also had a wonderful touch of humor. Hoping a lifetime of memories help to sustain you as you go through this difficult time.
Jay and Cheri Riotte
January 6, 2019
We were saddened to hear about the loss of John. He was always there with a mile and kind words. He will be missed. Our thoughts are with Alice and family.
Maryann Mugavero
January 6, 2019
My sympathy to John's family. My dad Joe used to drive for Dr Macdougall at electric boat and we knew John from Byles Macdougall. He made the hardest times easier for us as we lost our parents and 2 brothers. His empathy and kind compassion will always be remembered.
Charles ( Chaz ) Cole
January 6, 2019
To my friend, you were such an inspiration , not just to myself, but to "all" whom had the pleasures of truly getting to know you. It was such an honor , a TRUE moment of Pride and Joy, being able to shoot on Porky's Pals with you. We All will surely miss you John. God Bless
Mike & Donna Rogers
January 6, 2019
We are so sorry for your loss. John was a very special person. We will miss him.
Janine Destremps
January 5, 2019
So very sorry for your loss. He was such a caring man. Ill never forget his coming over to Judys my first time there after loosing my husband. I felt so much warmth, caring and compassion in talking to him.Ill always remember him for that. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Ralph & Yvonne CUENIN
January 5, 2019
Our deepest condolences and prayers are with you and your family. Ralph bowled with John at New London Ten Pin 40 years ago. John was a true gentleman, he will be missed by all.
Lisa Wildrick
January 5, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Blessed to know him. All my prayers to his loving family.
Rev. Dr. Kenneth Weldon
January 5, 2019
It is with sadness that I learned about John's passing. I worked with John at Byles-MacDougall for a number of years . I found him to be a very caring man, dedicated to his craft and the people he served. He and I prepared and transported my Mom when she passed at Beechwood Nursing Home in New London. His carefulness and professionalism was one of his many traits. My thoughts and prayers are with the family knowing John is sitting on the sands of a beach in Heaven. Rev. Dr. Kenneth Weldon
Cherrie Buscher(Morton)
January 5, 2019
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of John. John was a great friend of my brother's,(Mark Morton) . He will be missed and my prayers to his family. John comforted my family and attended all our funerals now it is his turn for comfort and peace.
Peter Dempsey
January 5, 2019
I'll always remember the joys of growing up next door to the Dr. McDougal clan, Marty, Judy, and the cute (and well-behaved) twins John and Susan. Our ADJOINING back yards ensured our social interaction and friendships during those formative years; and yes we shared a lot at the beach club. Thank you John for your loving and compassionate service over your 40 plus years at your funeral home. You helped so many of us to lighten the burden of the passing of our loved ones. Chubby and Mary come to mind, but I am sure their were too many to count. MAY you rest in the peace of our father and may you help your family through this difficult time.
CATHERINE HENSEN
January 5, 2019
I grew up next door to the MacDougalls on Hillside ave. John was younger than I was but a sweet boy. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and their loss.
Dianne&Edward Kexel
January 5, 2019
So very sorry to hear of John's passing....prayers to his family,,,,,,,,,,He was a good friend to my brother Mark Morton. May they meet again .God Bless.
Renee Davis
January 5, 2019
We are so sorry for your loss. He was such a great man and we always enjoyed sharing a hug and enjoying our conversation on the beach. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers. Renee and Josephine (C26).
Liz Smith
January 5, 2019
The loss of John MacDougall is the tragic loss of one of the good guys! John was well respected and loved everywhere but particularly in our family. When we lost my dad, John made the process of planning the service painless and actually helped us laugh through some of the difficult decisions. The humor we shared was the epitome of my dad so it was perfect that we laughed and celebrated his life that way. Thank you to the MacDougall family for sharing him with so many of us. We are blessed and are better people to have known him and loved him. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. I hope you have some fond memories to share and to laugh about.
The Smith Family
Gertrude, Lyn, Russell and Liz
Pamela Plasse
January 5, 2019
Judy, sincere thoughts of John and his loved ones. May you find peace and comfort with each other. You all are in my prayers.
Maurene Kennedy
January 5, 2019
Will always remember my good friend John D. MacDougall, and his kindness and compassion. Very sorry to learn of his passing, my condolences to his family.
Larry & Deb Updyke
January 5, 2019
We are grateful to have known John. May he rest in peace.
Ruthie Cushman Johnson
January 5, 2019
I am very saddened by this loss of A Great Man, Brother, Husband, Father and Friend! My childhood memories with John, & Chipper & Peter Holmes at Eastern Point are embedded with me forever! Not to be left out, the countless hours spent at Shenny our Home away from Home! Shenny will Never be The Same without You John! RIP ❤
January 5, 2019
Alice, Kim and Alix,
Im so sorry to hear of Johns passing. He was always such a positive and happy force down at Shenny - always putting smiles on everyones faces and making me laugh each time I saw him. More than that he made such an important impact on so, so many families when they needed it most at their most difficult of times. I will forever think back to my brothers passing and remember John being such a pillar of strength for my family throughout everything. I dont know how we could have ever gotten through it all without him. The world has lost such a great and compassionate soul who made an major impact on so many more peoples lives than you could ever imagine. We are so sorry for your loss and wish you and your family the utmost strength as you go through this difficult time. John will be sorely missed.
Love Rob and Whitney Parks
Rachel & Mike Jasenak
January 5, 2019
So sorry for your loss- our thoughts and prayers are with you
Showing 1 - 61 of 61 results
Make a Donation
in John MacDougall's name
Memorial Events
for John MacDougall
How to support John's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John MacDougall's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
