Douglas A. Fairbanks, beloved son of the late Grace (Paul) Fairbanks and Ralph Fairbanks, was a proud member of the United States Army and a devoted servant to his country, family, and community. He passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026.
Douglas honorably served his nation during both the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Throughout his military career, he exemplified dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to duty. Following his retirement from military service, he continued serving others as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
Even in retirement, Douglas remained deeply devoted to his fellow veterans and his community. He proudly served as Post Commander of the Windsor Locks VFW and was an active member of both the Enfield American Legion and the Suffield VFW. His commitment to service never wavered.
Douglas had a passion for travel, adventure, and living life to the fullest. An avid golfer, he spent many years working at Topstone Golf Course in South Windsor, where he enjoyed sharing his love of the game with friends and fellow golfers. Following the passing of his beloved wife, Suzan (Morin) Fairbanks, he continued to embrace life on his own terms, traveling to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and many other destinations. He found joy in exploring new places, meeting new people, and creating lasting memories wherever he went.
Even as Parkinson’s disease challenged his body, it never diminished his spirit, determination, or sense of independence. He continued moving forward with the resilience that defined his life, often keeping his children, grandchildren, and caregivers on their toes as they wondered where he might be headed next. More often than not, he would soon reappear on his motorized cart, bringing smiles, laughter, and relief to those who loved him. Douglas was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Suzan (Morin) Fairbanks, and his parents, Grace (Paul) Fairbanks and Ralph Fairbanks.
He is survived by his children, Christopher Douglas Fairbanks and Sandra Ann Morin; his daughter-in-law Michelle Fairbanks; his cherished grandchildren Zachary Kyle Morin and Avery Joseph Morin; his extended family; and countless friends, fellow veterans, and community members whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering generosity.
Those who knew Douglas will remember his larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and gift for storytelling. He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and appreciated. Whether through his military service, volunteer work, friendships, or simply a conversation shared over coffee, Douglas left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
His life was defined by service, strength, loyalty, and love. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy will live on through the family he cherished, the veterans he supported, and the many lives he enriched throughout his remarkable journey. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, friends, neighbors, and medical professionals who provided Douglas with support, companionship, and care throughout his life.
A Graveside Service with Military Honors will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 11:30AM in Hazardville Cemetery, Elm St., Enfield. The family requests that you please wear your military tee shirts, Honor flight shirt, military polo, jeans and shorts, unless you’d like to wear your military formal wear.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Douglas’s memory to organizations supporting veterans or educational scholarships benefiting future generations.
May he rest in peace, reunited with Suzan, and forever remembered with honor, gratitude, and love. “A life of service is a life well lived. Douglas served with honor, loved without reservation, and leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations.” For online condolences, please visit www.leetestevens.com.
Black Border 1SG (Ret) Douglas A. Fairbanks
