Katherine “Kathie” Carrigan
Katherine “Kathie” Carrigan passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. She was born on January 25, 1934, in Palmerton, Pennsylvania, to Edmund J. and Alice Flynn. From an early age, she embodied the values of dedication and service, qualities instilled in her by her parents’ legacy.
Kathie graduated from Palmerton High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Colby College in Waterville, Maine, where she was a proud member of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. Her connection to Colby remained strong throughout her life—she served on the alumni board, established scholarships, and mentored future graduates. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Education from Harvard University, continuing her lifelong commitment to learning and teaching.
Her career in education was extensive and deeply impactful. Kathie taught elementary students at Deep River Elementary School in Connecticut and later taught music at Jefferson and Gilboa Central Schools in New York. She became Director of the Hobart Activities Center, where she provided enriching opportunities for children and families. Upon returning to Maine, she served as the Migrant Teacher Coordinator in the Downeast region, where her efforts were recognized by the Maine Department of Education for developing outstanding programs for migrant students and their families. In recognition of her service, Kathie received the Service to Youth Award from the New York State Division for Youth, and accolades from the Maine Migrant Education Office.
Kathie’s dedication extended beyond youth; she also championed senior care. She revived and directed Kirkside, a retirement and senior living facility in Roxbury, New York, and later became the director of Cathedral Residences in Jacksonville, Florida.
Kathie’s volunteerism was wide-ranging, her contributions to community life too numerous to list. Alongside her devotion to family, she was passionate about music, sailing, and skiing. A gifted pianist, she performed for audiences across generations and founded “The Beltones,” a vocal group in the greater Stamford area. As a “ski mom,” she mentored young racers and instructors, offering guidance and warmth. And her love for sailing ran deep—she spent summers as a sailing instructor on Chebeague Island, Maine, and would take to the water any time a boat and breeze were available.
Kathie is survived by her children: Jo Carrigan Hinkley (Allen Hinkley) of Roxbury, NY, and Gov Carrigan of Jackson, WY. She also leaves behind three beloved grandchildren: Nicky Hinkley Cahill (Matt Cahill), Michelle Burtt (Brett Burtt), and Cadel Carrigan; as well as three great-grandchildren: Beckett Cahill, Parker Cahill, and Connor Burtt.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family invites you to honor Kathie by embracing the things she loved most: listen to music with passion, dance on the slopes, and sail the seas whenever you can.