Douglas Stetson Stuart, 91, of Bedford, NH, passed away Wednesday, July 6, following a period of declining health.

Doug was born in Eustis, ME, on October 23, 1924, to the late Mary Knapp. His childhood was spent with many loved ones, especially the Thompsons of Wollaston, MA. After graduating from Quincy High School, he enlisted into the Army and is a WWII veteran. He completed his education at Northeastern University. He married Elizabeth F. Hall of Weymouth, MA, on August 18, 1946.

Doug and Bette were very active in the West Abington Methodist Church, where his generosity and kindness started. He would pack his children up and deliver food or clothing to needy members of the community. Doug was a member of the Rotary Club for 15 years, and was also a selectman in Abington and a member of the Republican Town Committee.

His business career was started at Filing Equipment Bureau in Boston, MA, as a salesperson. He started his first business as a manufacturer’s representative as Douglas S. Stuart & Associates and later started Tables Unlimited with a business partner.

Eventually, Doug and Bette moved to Milford, NH, where he was a volunteer with the Animal Rescue League, as well as the SHARE program.

Doug’s family spent many happy summer vacations at their favorite cottage in Duxbury, MA. Doug and Bette spent many winter months at their special home at Siesta Key, Sarasota, FL, with many of their loving friends.

His passing leaves many of us with his legacy of generosity, kindness and love. He will always be remembered as the most wonderful Dad, friend and mentor. His positive mental attitude has influenced his children their whole lives. As many have remarked, "Doug Stuart was one of a kind."

Doug is predeceased by his loving wife of 71 years, Elizabeth "Bette" (Hall). He leaves behind his children, Douglas S. Stuart, Jr. of Brooks, ME, Anne E. Quirk of Milford, Jonathan L. Stuart of Deering, NH, Heidi J. Chenette and her husband, David, of Bedford, NH; grandchildren, Tracy A. Berube of Milford, Eben Stuart of Brighton, MA, Tyler E. Quirk of Milford, Matthew A. Stuart of Weare, NH,Abigail E. Stuart of Deering, and Nicholas R. Chenette of Boxford MA; great-grandchildren, Alexander Douglas Berube and Jack Reed Berube.

SERVICES: A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at the First Congregational Church, 10 Union St. Milford. Everyone is welcome to attend. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Milford SHARE program www.sharenh.org

Arrangements have been entrusted with Phaneuf Funeral Home & Crematorium.