Obituary of Douglas George Cassidy

AIKEN, SC – Douglas G. Cassidy, 73, died unexpectedly January 22, 2021. 

 

The devoted husband of Susan Cassidy, he was a beloved member of the communities of Aiken, South Carolina, Southampton, NY, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia (CAN) and Spring Lake Heights, NJ. His legacy is one of consummate devotion to animals and animal activism.  From childhood he continued through his lifetime to work for animal welfare causes and was honored for this by many local and national organizations.  He befriended and trained many dogs to the grateful thanks of neighbors and friends.  In Southampton, NY,  where he and Sue lived for nearly 50 years,  he helped establish ARF (Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons), an organization which continues to thrive years after its founding. He began there as a volunteer dog trainer and in later years was president.  He also was keenly involved in the animal care facility, Bide-A-Wee, which now has facilities in several areas in New York. His interests and enthusiasms went beyond family and friends and the family’s dog Rudy, and included fishing, golfing, cheering the NY Mets and writing. Known for his good humor and kindness, Doug is also to be remembered for his bagpiping and being a member of the Aiken Sheriff's Pipes and Drums. A graduate of the LaSalle University (BA), Long Island University (MA) additional studies at Adelphi University and Hofstra University, he was an English professor at Long Island University. 

 

His family, other than his devoted wife, Susan includes a sister, Barbara, and dear nephews Matthew and Brendan.

 

Gifts in Doug's memory may be made to The Humane Society of McCormick County, P.O. Box 900, McCormack, South Carolina 29835

The Historic George Funeral Home, 211 Park Ave., SW, Aiken, SC 29801 (803.649.6234), has charge of arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy for the family may be left by visiting www.georgefuneralhomes.com