Former Darien Student Leaves $25K Gift For High School Library

DARIEN, CT — The Darien High School Library will receive a large monetary gift thanks to the generosity of a late former student.

On Tuesday, the Darien Board of Education voted to unanimously accept the money from the family of Donald "Woody" Gray, who died on Aug. 8, 2023, at the age of 89.

"It is an honor for us to be offered this generous gift from Carolyn MacLear in memory of her father. Mr. Gray grew up in Darien, and was a graduate of Darien High School and the class of 1952," said DHS Assistant Principal Ellen Dunn. "He was an avid reader who spent much of his time in the Darien High School Library."

In his will, Gray left a gift in the amount of $25,000 for the benefit of the DHS Library, Dunn explained.

"Our librarians have been working with the family in identifying some of the things that would honor him through this gift, which includes some wonderful books and e-books, and display cases to encourage our students when they pass through the library to pick up something to read as he did many, many years ago," Dunn added.

According to a post on Gray on the Ivy Rugby Conference website, Gray played football, basketball, and participated in track and field at DHS. Gray went on to play football and rugby at Dartmouth College.

Notably, the post mentioned Gray's affinity for reading.

"Forever a voracious reader, starting in high school, it is safe to say that few (maybe no one) had more books than Woody. Numerous walls in his house were totally consumed from floor to ceiling with a bookshelf; and because he made sure all the book jackets were pristine, their multi-colors provided a unique version of wallpaper in many rooms," the post said.

Dunn said she was able to find a photo of Gray from the 1952 yearbook, and she noted that Gray was involved with the school yearbook and newspaper.

Also on Tuesday, the board accepted gifts benefiting the athletic department and DHS band program.

"We are truly honored to receive these monies and ultimately items from each one of you all. Thank you for your support of our schools and our students," said Board Chair Jill McCammon.

Tuesday's Board of Education meeting was streamed via Zoom and it's available to watch on demand on Darien TV79.