Rachel D. Coffin

Rachel Dodds Coffin, “Teddy” to all who knew and loved her, of Harvard passed away on October 8, 2026 after 95 years of a life well-lived. While still sharp and full of good humor, she passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

Born on February 4, 1931, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, Teddy graduated from Beaver Falls High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Allegheny College. She moved to Philadelphia with girlfriends where she began her career as an elementary school teacher, but after winning a ski pass to Stowe, she packed up her skis and moved to Burlington, Vermont. During a day on the slopes she met her future husband, David Coffin. They were married two years later, settling in Carlisle, Massachusetts before purchasing a home among apple trees in Harvard, where they raised two children and spent 65 years together.

Teddy’s friendly personality made her well known around town. Giving generously of her time and getting along with everyone, Teddy was an active and beloved member of the Harvard Unitarian Church and the Garden Club. She managed Bargains in the Belfry, the church’s thrift shop, arranged flowers for weekly services, and was instrumental in transforming the Christmas Pageant into an ecumenical event. Through the Garden Club, Teddy shared her talents with the wider community by creating floral displays for tables at The General Store and graduation ceremonies at Bromfield. Her talent and passion for natural, cascading arrangements blossomed into a business called Country Cuttings. She also volunteered as a driver for Harvard Help, often providing transportation to residents decades younger than herself, and delighted children with a Halloween diorama at the Harvard Public Library, a tradition which she continued well into her 80’s.

Teddy was always ready for adventure. She trail-blazed on her dirt bike, enjoyed more than 50 years of skiing in Vermont, and played tennis and golf, pursuits that brought her lasting friendships and laughter, both on and off the courts and fairways. Her love of travel took her to Europe, New Zealand, Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean with family and friends.

Her family was her pride and joy, and she hosted countless Sunday night dinners and holiday celebrations in her home. Her homemade apple pies were always a favorite. Teddy’s four grandchildren were especially fortunate to have their “Mimi” nearby. Teddy also maintained close ties to her sister’s children. Beyond her love for family and friends, Teddy had a special place in her heart for dogs. There wasn’t a dog that she didn’t love and who didn’t love her in return.

While her family is deeply saddened by the loss of this much-loved woman, they feel blessed to have had Teddy as an integral part of their lives for so many years. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, David Coffin Jr. of Harvard; her daughter, Janis Dyer, and her husband, Eric, of Harvard; her son, David Coffin III, and his wife, Chris, of Concord; her goddaughter, Kit Holland of Harvard; four grandchildren, Gage Coffin, Alexandra Coffin, Samuel Dyer, and Noah Dyer; and one great-grandson, Zealand Young, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Leah Dodds; her sisters, Margery Simpson and Janis Dodds; and her brother-in-law, Bartlett Simpson.

A green burial took place on Saturday, October 10, at Bellevue Cemetery in Harvard. A celebration of life will be held later this fall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to New England Lab Rescue (NELR).

Arrangements are under the care of Badger Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA 01460. 978-486-3709