So many friends and loved ones came to say good-bye to Kaitlyn Doorhy, a beloved young woman who died tragically one week ago, that they spilled out onto the steps of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Mattituck on Friday.
The crowd of mourners was dressed in a sea of bright pink and blue, green and tangerine, as vibrant and beautiful as the sunflowers at the front of the church — those attending had been asked to dress in colorful clothing, to celebrate Kaitlyn’s life.
The service began with tears as the hymn “Here I Am, Lord” played and those who loved the former Strawberry Queen held hands and sang softly.
Family friend William Araneo offered a heartfelt eulogy, remembering Kaitlyn as “a force,” who was passionate about standing up for what was right, for education, for change, for her many public service projects, her academic excellence — and as a force “for coutour”.
He assured Kaitlyn’s younger sister Carly and her heartbroken parents Joe and Darla that the whole community was there for support, and asked for a show of hands to see who “was in”; a sea of hands were raised as friends vowed to stand by the Doorhys in their time of great loss.
The homily and gospel by Monsignor Joe Staudt spoke of Kaitlyn’s eternal life, reading from the book of John: “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again, and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”
Readings were done by Kaitlyn’s Aunt Gabrielle Toman and Uncle John Toman. Prayers of the Faithful were read by John and Dena Campell, Ellen Savaglio, and Rick and Therese Leach. The presentation of gifts was made by Kaitlyn’s godparents, Jim Doorhy and Dor’e Seely. And “Kait’s Men” served as her pall bearers, including John Arena, John Derek Campbell, Jarrett Campell, Eddie Macari, Chris Pia, Grant Pia, Nick Savaglio and Mike Scneider Jr.
On the program were printed a series of “Kait’s Quotes” which included her favorite sayings, including, “Appreciate what you have and who you have, because the future can take it away from you and take it away from you any time.” It concluded with the words, “Until next time, XOXO, Kait.”
After the service, interment followed at Sacred Heart R.C. Cemetery in Cutchogue. Memorial donations to Kappa Delta Sorority at Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT would be appreciated by the Doorhy family.
