Bayport-Blue Point business teacher Doug Monsell lost a valiant battle against liver disease Wednesday morning.
The well-liked 47-year-old educator is being remembered by school leaders and friends as an enthusiastic teacher who truly enjoyed his work and helping his students achieve, and as a good man and father. He was a graduate of Bayport-Blue Point schools.
He was an avid sports fan of the Mets, Jets and Rangers and often worked security for district football and basketball games.
Monsell was diagnosed two months ago and was being treated at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. He had been awaiting an organ transplant but went into organ failure on Tuesday.
Bayport-Blue Point Board of Education President Jim March was a longtime friend who first met Monsell when they played on a softball team together 25 years ago.
"I'm a little numb as it's unbelievable," said March.
Monsell served as the advisor for the district's DECA team this year which scored high at the Suffolk Regional Competition ths past January. DECA's mission is “to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools around the globe.”
All eight of Bayport-Blue Point High School team members, representing grades nine through twelve, placed at the regionals.
"This is a really good group of kids," Monsell said in a Patch interview earlier this year. "They have their heads screwed on, they're thinking about their futures."
Bayport-Blue Point School Superintendent Anthony Annuziato told Patch the district is mourning the loss of an outstanding teacher.
"He gave of himself unselfishly," said Annunziato, who described him as "instrumental" in improving and expanding the business program.
In addition to teaching new electives Monsell spearheaded the School to Business partnership with local businesses and the chamber of commerce.
Monsell also coached the JV Boys and Varsity Girls golf teams.
"The loss we all feel at the school district and community is profound. He will be terribly missed by all. We send our condolences and sympathies to his family and friends," said Annunziato.
Receive breaking news in your inbox or smartphone by signing up for our newsletter here
