Harriet R. Strain

Harriet Rice Strain 94, of Killingworth was born August 7, 1918 in New London CT. She died peacefully in her home on September 26, 2012. She was the daughter of the late Harriet and Charles Rice. She was predeceased by her husband of 53 years James R. Strain and her brother Walter Rice. She is survived by her daughter Carol Strain Fredericksen and her husband Owen of Killingworth, granddaughters Elizabeth Szymanski and her husband Craig of Ivoryton, and Sarah Germini and her husband Matthew of Chester, three great-grandchildren Erin Szymanski, Nathan Szymanski, and Charles Germini.

Harriet had a long and full life. Growing up in New London accounts for her love of the water and seafood. She spent much of her childhood sailing and participating in many sports like basketball and tennis. She stayed in the New London area and attended CT College for Women in New London and graduated June 1940 with a BA in Liberal Arts. While in College she endured the ’38 Hurricane and met a handsome sailor who later became her husband. In 1940 she moved to Newtown CT where she had her first teaching position as a Social Sciences teacher. During World War II she volunteered to serve the war effort to help our country by being a plane spotter. She was also a Lieutenant in the Red Cross Motor Corps, an operator at Civil Defense Headquarters, and volunteered for the OPA, Office of Prime Administration. In 1943 Harriet and Jim were married just before his deployment. From 1948 to 1953 she taught at Chester High School, Pratt High School in Essex, and then Valley Regional High School. In 1953 she started her longest teaching career at Old Saybrook High School where she taught for 46 years. Her reputation as a stern task master was not lost on her students. Many of these students would come back and share their success and thank her for preparing them for their future. In her long career, Harriet became well-known throughout the state as an “articulate spokesperson for the dignity of the teaching profession through her work in the Connecticut Education Association (CEA)”. She was on the Board of Directors for the CEA for 14 years. Harriet was known as a master teacher who served the school in many capacities.

Harriet was president of the Old Saybrook Education Association for many years. In this position her high standards inspired students and teachers alike. She was an outspoken negotiator for the OSEA fighting for teachers’ rights for years. She did all this while continuing her own education earning her Masters & 6th year degrees. Harriet was extremely well liked, respected and her many contributions to education will never be forgotten.

In her retirement she was able to focus on another passion of hers; animal rights and welfare. Forty years ago she helped establish the Valley Shore Animal Welfare League. During this time she was active at the state and local levels fighting for the humane treatment of animals.

Harriet spent many enjoyable hours working her in garden and enjoying the many birds that frequented her feeders, and also the antics of the many squirrels and chipmunks residing on her patio. Her love of all aspects of nature was very dear and close to her heart.

Harriet did not end her volunteer work after retirement. A few of her favorite causes were Meals on Wheels, Literacy Volunteers, and many international and national causes for preservation of the environment and endangered wildlife.

Family and friends may visit the Swan Funeral Home Sunday, September 30th from 2pm to 3pm, with a Funeral Service to follow at 3pm. The graveside will be private. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to your favorite animal charity. Please visit www.swanfuneralhomeoldsaybrook.com for condolences and tributes.