Douglas Llewellyn
November 5, 1947-September 16, 2025
Penfield, NY – We are saddened to announce the passing of Douglas Llewellyn on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 77, in Penfield, NY.
Doug is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Ann; beloved daughter Janice; son-in-law Dr. Robert Fortuna; and his two cherished granddaughters, Katelyn and Allison Fortuna. He is also fondly remembered by his brothers-in-law, Frank Beyer (Deb Gallagher) and Larry (Deb) Beyer.
Doug began his distinguished career in education as a charismatic middle school science teacher at Westhill in Syracuse, NY, where his passion for inquiry and connection with students quickly came to light. He later served as principal of Dansville Junior High School in Dansville, NY, before a 20-year tenure as the K–12 Director of Science for the Rochester City School District.
Upon retirement, Doug dedicated himself to writing, authoring eight widely respected textbooks and numerous articles on science inquiry—leaving a lasting impact on educators and students alike. As a part-time faculty member at St. John Fisher University, he taught graduate science education courses and co-directed the Teacher Leader Quality Partnership (TLQP), where he mentored future educators with his wisdom and experience.
Doug was a frequent consultant and presenter at both state and national conferences, renowned for his expertise in inquiry- and argument-based teaching, constructivist learning, and science leadership.
He was known for his immense sense of humor, zest for life, and deep love for his family. His granddaughters were a source of immense pride, joy, and laughter. He was a vibrant and beloved presence in their lives—cheering from the little league stands, watching them cross the finish line at track meets and ski races, and attending every science fair, dance recital, orchestra, band, and jazz band concert. He cherished their stories, activities, and personalities.
In his spare time, Doug enjoyed writing, traveling, baseball, and sailing on Canandaigua Lake. He was active with the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association (CLWA) and was recently honored as a Friend of the Lake for his contributions, educational programming, and advocacy in lake-friendly living.
He will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing him—family, friends, colleagues, and the countless students whose lives he touched.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the UR Medicine Hospice Care team, as well as the Shepherd Home in Penfield, for their compassionate end-of-life care and support.
In remembrance, donations in Doug’s name can be made to the Shepherd Home, 1959 Five Mile Line Rd, Penfield, NY 14526, or online at www.shepherdhome.org.
The family will hold a private celebration of Doug’s life and extend their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support they have received during this time.
30 responses to “Llewellyn, Douglas”
Ann~ My thoughts & prayers extend to you & your family. Memories will always be of comfort, hold them close to your hearts. Rip & God Bless!!!
Doug, you took care of my sister and adopted me into your life. Always caring with a twist of humor. I hope your memory will live on forever, I know it will for me. Ann, we will all miss him and the respect he brought to this world. He led quite a full life and for that we should all be happy.
I am saddened by the loss of Doug . He was a wonderful and kind man who supported my teaching career for many years. He recognized that my teaching was a bit different and definitely not the the norm but he always encouraged me to become the best teacher I could be. He will always remain in my heart.
There are so many memories that I have of Doug and most involve a whole life full of laughter and silly mischief. The twinkle in his eye will always be remembered as a tribute to his lust of life. A consummate educator, loving family man, and a friend whose loyalty was beyond measure.
Doug has been a valued friend, a respected administrator within the RCSD and a patient listener to tales from the Bristol Hills. Always ready for a fish fry, Doug shared many a story and insight with his many friends. He will be long remembered and sadly missed.
I did not know Doug very well, but I do know he was a wonderful man who I highly respected. His love was shared by all. We will miss you Doug.
Sending love and prayers to Ann and the family. IIremember Doug as always smiling, friendly and kind to everyone. I am so sorry for your loss.
Ann and family, I can’t tell you how saddened I am by your loss. Doug was a friend, an advocate, and a mentor. We have lost one of God’s finest. God bless all of you with wonderful memories.
Mr.Llewellyn, I will never forget the school camping science trip you coordinated for us students. I cherish the opportunity to have seen you and Mr. Bailey at breakfast. Your kind words of encouragement helped me become the successful man I am today, for that I’m extremly grateful. Thank you sir! May God comfort your loving family and may you rest in Eternal Peace.
I am deeply saddened by the news of Doug passing. Although I did not work directly for him, he was part of the directors at the Rochester City School District where I worked for many years. He was a great person and director. I have a picture of him when he volunteer to come to my house to do a slime demostration for my boy scout group of which my two boys were a part of it. He did a great job and all the boys enjoyed getting messy! Rest in peace Dough. We will always remember you.
So sadden by the news of Doug’s passing. I have such fond memories of him stopping by the house for a quick , the many times he was in my classroom and the many quiet conversations we shared. There is no escaping his dedication to helping students to understand and enjoy science and dedication to the students and staff in the Rochester City School District.
Ann
I was very sad to hear about Doug’s passing. What an incredible family man. You have so many amazing moments and memories together. Thinking of you, Janice, Rob & the girls. Sending love, prayers and strength to you all during this difficult time.
A dear and valued friend, Doug lived his Christian life to the fullest, always and without hesitation, willing to step forward and lend a hand in myriad ways. For me, the range of help was quite broad, from helping to position heavy wood planks (sacrificing even a few drops of blood), to using his grant-writing skills in helping to secure gov’t funding. Anonymously, and never boastfully, he helped many others along in life. Rest in the arms of Jesus, Our Lord, dear friend.
Dear Ann,
I am so very sorry to hear of Doug’s passing.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers at this sad time.
Its a sad day for us. Doug left an impression on me from the first time I met him. He hired me as a teacher and mentored me as an administrator. His dedication to science for students was pervasive across the RCSD and the community as a whole. You will be missed.
Mr.Llewellyn,
So sad to hear of your passing. You were a huge impact in my life with teaching 7th & 8th grade science @ Lyncourt Jr high back in early 1970s. I was struggling with learning until I switched school’s & started attending Lyncourt. You were a dynamic teacher & I really thrived in learning to love science. Peace, Prayers & Strength to your family.
Steve Morgese
Doug made such a difference for science teachers and students. He was well respected. Always friendly. Committed. Active in science education well into his retirement years. I really only knew Doug through STANYS events but I know that he lived a purposeful life. Doug – I know your family must be so proud of all of your accomplishments. You lived a wonderful life. I’m grateful to have known you.
Grieving the loss of a mentor in the RCSD who taught me how to be a fun science teacher. He thoroughly enjoyed making a complete mess in my classroom. The students loved it when he came in to disrupt. Thanks Doug! Camille Perlo
Doug was a wonderful neighbor and friend for more than 25 years. I miss our driveway conversations.
As a City School District teacher, I enjoyed every work shop or training that he lead. I always knew it would be worthwhile and Ithat I would leave with materials for my classroom.
Doug was my dear friend and colleague. He was incredibly special to me. My world will not be the same without him.
I’m so sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. Doug always acknowledged and supported those of us who taught the sciences at RCSD. I will always remember and cherish the camaraderie I felt whenever Doug was in the Chemistry lab with me. RIP brother,
Doug was a scholar and made enormous contributions to the Rochester City School District. He would bring colleagues together for fun and adventure. Highly respected.
I am so, so saddened to hear about Doug‘s passing. He was a fantastic educator and a wonderful human being. He was well liked by everyone – students,teachers, administrators, families, friends – we will all miss him very, very much. Doug was not only an exemplary teacher and administrator in the Rochester City School District but he also contributed so much to those studying to be teachers and leaders at St. John Fisher University. He touched so many lives with his talent and positivity. My deepest condolences to his family.
Words cannot express how important Doug’s mentorship meant to me. He saw a leader in me before I even thought it was possible. Because of him my path is drastically different in a positive way. We lost a GIANT in the educational community.
Doug was a great advocate for and leader of science education. Always knew our Fisher students were being served well when Doug was teaching.
Doug was my dear mentor as I completed my Masters’ thesis at St. John Fisher. He was always energetic, kind, and full of intriguing ideas! His love of sharing science with students and of creating engaging activities to spark questions was infectious. He will be missed very much, but I’ll always remember him and our work together.
My sympathies for the family and friends of Mr. Llewelyn. He was one of my favorite teachers at Lyncourt Jr. High School in Syracuse, NY, in the early ‘70s. He was very special and unforgettable. I’m grateful to have known him.
Dear Ann and family, our hearts are heavy learning of Doug’s passing. Such a wonderful neighbor in so many ways!! Throwing a welcome to the neighborhood party for my husband and I when we moved in! Doug even made the delicious soup himself for the event! And I’ll never forget running over your home at night soon after moving in when my husband was at a meeting because I was convinced someone broke me in the house while taking a bath. Of course Doug came right back with me and checked every inch of the house! Such a good and wonderful man. He is missed!! XO Linda and Andy
Ann,
My heartfelt prayers and love to you ♥️
It is with great sadness that we discovered only today that our friend and colleague has passed on to heaven.
Doug was an extraordinary human being—full of laughter, love, and a deep respect that you felt whenever he was near. He was fun, knowledgeable, widely respected, and genuinely caring toward others. Sharon and I will miss him dearly.