Denis H. Caslon, a Latin teacher at St. Bernard's School in New York City, died surrounded by family on May 13 at 90. Known for his sharp wit, love of horse racing and theater, and unforgettable presence in the classroom, Denis touched many lives.
Born in England on June 4, 1934, Denis earned a degree in Medieval and Modern Greek from Oxford University. He served in the Royal Navy from 1956 to 1958, training in Intelligence and studying Russian. His teaching career began at The Hill School in Pennsylvania, followed by doctoral studies at Harvard. In 1966, he found his true calling as a Latin teacher at St. Bernard’s School.
Beyond the classroom, Denis had a rich and colorful life. He owned several race horses in England. He regularly attended Goodwood. His early days in New York City were spent in pursuit of becoming a playwright, and he had two plays that made it to the stage, in NYC and later in Toronto. His love of theater led him to invest in numerous Broadway and West End productions, including the hit musical Hairspray. It ultimately earned him a Tony Award as a producer for the 1997 revival of A View From the Bridge.
Denis was married twice. His first wife, Joanna Williams, whom he married in 1983, died in 1990. In 1995, he married Sarah L. Rivinus (Sally). They lived in New York City, Chestnut Hill, and Littlehampton, England. He is survived by Sally, his stepdaughters, Amory and Perry Meigs, Megan Williams, and a wide circle of friends, former students, and colleagues.
Denis H. Caslon will be remembered for his wisdom, humor, and unwavering passion for teaching.
