Bob DeMayo Connecticut Obituary and Death – Bob DeMayo, the most celebrated high school baseball coach in Connecticut history, has died at age 94. Known for his extraordinary 68-season career with North Haven High School and a record-setting 937 wins, DeMayo was more than a coach — he was a mentor, educator, and pillar of the North Haven community.
“There will never be another coach like him,” North Haven Athletics posted Thursday on X. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Bette, and his family. May he rest in peace.” 🕊️
âšľ A Coaching Career for the Ages
DeMayo began coaching in 1958, building a dynasty that became synonymous with North Haven athletics. During his tenure, he led the Indians to:
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🏆 5 CIAC State Championships
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🏅 19 Housatonic League Titles
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🥇 2 Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Titles
His last state championship came in 2015, decades after his first, proving not just longevity—but lasting excellence.
In 2018, he celebrated his 900th win, a 7–6 victory over Amity in the SCC quarterfinals—yet another milestone in a career already rich with accomplishments.
🧠Beyond the Ball Field
DeMayo was more than a coach—he was a beloved teacher, mentor, and father figure to many. North Haven Athletic Director Steve Blumenthal, who once had DeMayo as his psychology teacher, shared:
“He is not only the foundation of North Haven baseball but for all of North Haven athletics… If you knew him, you know he was much more than a coach and his legacy will live on in North Haven for a long time.” đź’¬
Students and athletes alike recall DeMayo’s discipline, wisdom, and ability to inspire greatness—on and off the field.
🏟️ Honored in Life, Celebrated in Legacy
Though Coach DeMayo retired in 2022, tributes to his legacy continued to roll in. Just last month, the CIAC honored him by dedicating the state championship games in his name. While he was unable to attend due to health, his wife Bette and family stood proudly at home plate at Palmer Field, Middletown, in his honor.
Earlier this spring, North Haven High celebrated key championship anniversaries from his storied teams in 1975, 1985, and 2015—a testament to his lasting presence in Connecticut sports history.
âšľ From Player to Icon
Before becoming a coaching legend, DeMayo played baseball at Notre Dame-West Haven, then at Fordham University, and later in the Baltimore Orioles’ minor league system. His firsthand experience enriched his coaching style—anchored in fundamentals, strategy, and character.
“I have tried to teach my players the many levels of this marvelous game,” DeMayo said upon retirement. “… introducing the intricacies which can result in a victory when you have no right to the win.” 🧢
đź“Ś Looking Ahead: Honoring a Legend
Plans to memorialize Coach DeMayo are already underway. The North Haven school district has expressed a desire to consult with the DeMayo family before announcing further tributes for the 2024–2025 academic year.
Coach Bob DeMayo is survived by his wife, Bette, and their extended family. His memory will live on in every North Haven athlete who picks up a bat, dons a glove, and steps onto the diamond with pride and purpose.
đź’¬ Final Words
Coach Bob DeMayo’s impact goes far beyond the numbers. He was a pillar of the community, a legend of the game, and a mentor to thousands.
His 68 seasons of coaching will forever be etched into Connecticut’s history, but more importantly, so will the values he instilled: discipline, sportsmanship, resilience, and heart.
Rest easy, Coach. You gave the game—and your community—everything. 🙏⚾
