Condolences for
Richard Thomas Coburn Ph.D.

My deepest sympathy to Dr. Coburn's family. I had the privilege of having him as an English teacher at Trumbull High in Connecticut (Class of 1987). He was always so pleasant in class and made learning fun.

A true gem with a unique teaching style ... sharing his love of Life & English literature !!!
He inspired and encouraged us to strive for greatness , live to our fullest potential , and see the best in ourselves .
Always a full class !
Thank you for making a difference : )
Alison A. Corda
THS 88

From your life long friend, Roger Laverty. I know that you are in a much better place now, but we will all miss you greatly. We both have sadness that you have left us and happiness that you have ascended. You were the most unique and fantastic person I have ever known. I do not have any brothers, but if I did and chose someone that they would be like - of all those I have ever known – I would have wished they were exactly like you. I have known you since 1951 at Bassick High School. You have always impressed me with your honesty and integrity and your outlook on life, so much so, I tried to copy you in my lifestyle. We went through high school together as The 4 musketeers. You met a wonderful girl, Jeanette, and joined a life time partnership. You soon had two beautiful and loving daughters, Laura Lee and Angela Mae. You raised them as caring and giving young ladies with the true meaning of life in the home you designed and built, brick by brick and stone by stone, and built with love and caring. You then taught many of your students, not only the knowledge needed to pass grades, but how to have a leadership role in life, I am sure they all loved you for that. Some day in the future, I look forward to say, “Greetings and salutations from the Musketeers.”

Your Devoted Friend,
Roger Laverty

As a young student in college, I received notification that my student teaching would be done at Trumbull High School, now Madison Middle School. I drove to meet my cooperating teacher, Doc Coburn. He introduced me to the art of teaching, the creativity and the joy of sharing knowledge and passion with students. Each morning Doc greeted me with the biggest smile. He allowed me to be me, using my own style of teaching, only guiding me when necessary. I taught English in Trumbull for 46 years, retiring two years ago. I did not start out to be a teacher, but Doc was able to illustrate how fantastic the exchange of knowledge between teacher and student could be. Because of Doc Coburn, I decided to pursue my career in education.