Porter, Gene W.

Gene Wyman Porter, 92, of Haddam, beloved husband of Laura (Shail) Porter for more than 68 years, passed away Friday January 5, 2024 at Middlesex Hospital with his loving family at his bedside. He was born in Lancaster, NH, son of the late Ralph and Frances (Southworth) Porter. He grew up in Middletown, CT but spent most of his life in Haddam. Gene earned his bachelor's degree at the University of Connecticut, an associate degree in Mortuary Science from New England Institute of Anatomy, Sanitary Science and Embalming, Boston, and later his master's degree and education certificates from Southern Connecticut State University. Gene began his career as a funeral director and embalmer. His passion for the sciences led him to his second career as a high school science educator, at East Lyme High School. He then spent decades teaching science at Regional School District 17 in Haddam. Gene loved teaching and the students he taught. He was a great story teller, loved history and as we all know, loved to make us laugh. Gene was an active member of the United Congregational Church of Haddam where he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, treasurer, and member of the choir. He also served the community in many other ways; president of the Haddam Historical Society, member of the Haddam Library Board, president of the Haddam Central Burial Association, member of the Middletown Rotary, and other town committees. In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his children, John Porter and wife Karen of Brewster, MA, Marjorie Porter and partner Dom of Pomfret, CT, Keith Porter and his wife Lisa of Wallingford, CT, and Elizabeth Craig and her husband Roy of Suffield, CT; five grandchildren, Sarah, Gregory, Joshua, Brytnie and Daniel; and seven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by two brothers, Ralph and Robert Porter. Funeral services will be held Friday (Jan. 12th) at 11 a.m. at United Congregational Church of Haddam, 905 Saybrook Rd., Haddam. Burial will follow at the Haddam Center Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to a scholarship fund which will be set up in Gene's name or the United Congregational Church of Haddam. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome. com.

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