E. Doris Harrington

Emma Doris Harrington, 96, of Fairfield, CT, and Sebastian, FL, previously a resident of Stratford and Southport, passed away on February 18, 2025. Born in Bridgeport, CT, to the late David and Helen Domonkos of Fairfield, Doris was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Kathleen Lynch, her five sisters and one brother.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Herbert F. Harrington, Jr.; daughter Sandra Parauka (Roger) of Ansonia, CT, and David Hassell (Joelle) of Sebastian, FL; grandchildren Marc Parauka (Becky), BJ Parauka, both of Ansonia, and Alison Byrd of West Haven; great-grandchildren Armin and Aria Parauka; and several nieces and nephews. Doris is also survived by her husband’s children: Nancy Purcell (Coy), Jill Harrington, Wes Harrington (Linda), Marty Harrington, and John Harrington, as well as nine grandchildren and one great-grandson.

A graduate of Roger Ludlowe High School (Class of 1946) and Butler Business School (1947), Doris began her career at Avco Lycoming before joining Rotair Aerospace Corporation in Bridgeport. There, she worked for over fifty years, serving as vice president. It was at Rotair that Doris met her husband, Herbert. She considered the Rotair employees as her extended family.

Doris’s commitment to her community was remarkable. She served as chairperson of the Greater Bridgeport Symphony for many years and contributed countless hours to its success. She was actively involved in numerous charitable organizations, including the Combined Health Appeal, American Cancer Society, and Connecticut Hospice, and chaired several benefit events such as the Dogwood Fantasy Ball and the Joys of Spring Dance for the Music and Arts Center for the Handicapped. Most recently, she supported the construction of Thrive, a cancer therapy center in Trumbull.

Over the years, Doris was honored with several awards, including the 2005 Star Award for Community Leadership from Ahlbin Rehabilitation Centers, the 1998 Woman of Substance recognition from the Connecticut Post, and the 1998 Distinguished Woman of the Year Award from the Housatonic Girl Scouts Council. She was also a Paul Harris Fellow with the Rotary Foundation.

In addition to her community work, Doris performed in regional theater, including a lead role as Anna in The King and I and a notable performance in the Razzle Dazzle charity event at the Cabaret Theater. Doris was a member of the Fairfield County Hunt Club, Black Rock Yacht Club, Algonquin Club, and Contemporary Club.

Doris’s legacy of generosity, leadership, and dedication to her family and community will be cherished forever.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Saturday, February 22 from 9-11am at the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield CT. A funeral service will follow at 11am. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Greater Bridgeport Symphony, 2385 Park Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06604, https://gbs.org/donate/