BOSTON – Former Suffolk student-athlete, Rams' baseball coach and Suffolk Athletics Hall of Famer George Doucet BA '59, MEd '62 passed away Saturday, March 21 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's at the age of 84.
"George (Doucet) to those who had the good fortune to be a baseball or basketball teammate at Suffolk University in the 1950's and later in the 1960's and 1970's as a player both mourn his passing, while celebrating the unique style and personality that he revealed at every practice and game they and I were privileged to enjoy and benefit under his tutelage," Emeritus Director of Athletics James E. Nelson said.
Doucet had a decorated career at Suffolk first as a four-year letterwinner for the Rams baseball and basketball teams, before the left-handed pitcher returned to coach the University's baseball team in 1962. During his 14 seasons as skipper, he compiled an overall record of 102-76, including five consecutive winning campaigns. He achieved all of this without a home field on which to practice or play games.
During various intervals at Suffolk, Doucet also served as assistant coach of the men's basketball team.
With all of his accomplishments, which also included a four-year minor league stint with the old Philadelphia Athletics, Doucet was a member of Suffolk's inaugural Hall of Fame Class in 2007. He was a unanimous selection for not only his unmatched knowledge of baseball, but how he always preached the importance of academics and discipline to his players. He had the respect of his student-athletes and taught them about team work and sportsmanship – values that have remained with them to this day.
After retiring from Suffolk in 1972, Doucet devoted his time to his teaching responsibilities at Revere High School where he taught English and Theatre Arts.
Doucet is survived by his wife, Marilyn A. Doucet, with whom he shard 63 years of marriage, and his children; Denise Doucet, Darlene Doucet, Diane Lavery and her husband Peter Lavery, and Kenneth Doucet and his wife Kathleen Doucet. He is also survived by four grandchildren, two step grandchildren, a great granddaughter, and a host of nieces, nephews and close friends.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the Doucet family will be delaying services until later summer, early fall for the health and safety of family and friends.
For those who wish to honor George's dedication to teach and coaching, the family has asked to make a memorial donation to Suffolk University Athletics, which can be done so here or by texting "SURAMS" to 717-77.