SUZANNE I. DOUGLAS

MIDDLEBURY — Suzanne I. Douglas died Jan, 18, 2024, at the age of 74.

Suzanne was born in Ogdensburg, N.Y., the daughter of Ralph P.  and Mary (Bell) Douglas. She graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy in 1967. She graduated Cum Laude with a B.A. in History from St. Lawrence University in 1971. After receiving a masters’ in Library Science from SUNY Albany in 1972, she worked as a high school librarian in Potsdam, N.Y.

A lifelong exploration of textile handcrafts led Suzanne to Arriba Design Works in Maine. She designed and sold hooked rugs at professional craft shows throughout the Northeast. Suzanne moved to Middlebury in 1994 as the store manager at Red Clover Rugs. Suzanne worked in Charlotte’s Collection, teaching quilting and knitting classes and forming lifelong friendships.

Suzanne was a dedicated staff member of the Henry Sheldon Museum since 1999, starting as the librarian in the Stewart-Swift Research Center. Her many responsibilities included giving tours, research, document conservation and developing exhibits. Most recently, she shared her wealth of knowledge about the museum at the front desk and will be remembered for her warm welcome to all visitors.

Suzanne shared her talents with the museum, contributing her thoughtfully designed creations for raffles and teaching textile workshops. She was a true fiber artist. She leaves behind her many friends from rug hooking, quilting, and knitting guilds. She shared her passion and will long be remembered for her generosity and willingness to help people of all ages.

She is survived by her aunt, Donna Bell of Washington, D.C.; uncle Richard Dillenbeck of Ogdensburg, N.Y.; cousin Robert Dillenbeck of Essex Junction, Vt., cousin Wayne Ashley of Ogdensburg, N.Y.; and several other cousins

She was predeceased by her father, Ralph P. Douglas and her mother, Mary (Bell) Douglas, and brother Stanley R. Douglas of Ogdensburg, N.Y.

Contributions can be made to Henry Sheldon Museum in Middlebury, Vt.

Arrangements by Sanderson Funeral Home of Middlebury.◊