Kathy Horan, 65

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Kathy Horan passed away peacefully Sunday, February 18, 2018, at Berkshire Medical Center with her family and supporters by her side.  

Kathy was born December 31, 1952, in North Adams the daughter of John and Phyllis (Giroux) Horan. Kathy was born with Down’s Syndrome; however, it never prevented her from living life to the fullest.  With the unending support of her mother, who was a pioneer for the advancement of those with special needs in the Berkshires, Kathy attended The Mary Jezyk School and worked for many years in the dining facilities of North Adams State College, now MCLA, and St. Joseph’s Court. She participated in and won medals in the Special Olympics.

Always a prankster and lover of games and fun, Kathy brought smiles to all those around her. A sports enthusiast, especially of the Red Sox and Miami Dolphins, Kathy could recite the stats of every player on the team. She was an accomplished bowler and brought home many trophies. She traveled extensively throughout the United States with her mother and enjoyed time spent at the Oak and Spruce Resort, tie dying, fishing and was a spinner of fantastic "fish tales." Kathy had own signature style of fashion. The brighter and bolder the color the better!

Kathy leaves her brothers John and his wife Nancy of Easthampton and David and his wife Sandra of Westfield; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves her devoted caregiver, Sabrina Powell of Pittsfield.  
The family wishes to acknowledge all those who have assisted Kathy throughout her life, especially Patty Main, with whom Kathy lived with in North Adams, and Gail Ann Garland of Beckett. From the Garland’s lakeside home Kathy spent many enjoyable summers swimming, fishing and kayaking. The family thanks the staff at the Center for Development and Crossroads with special thanks to Rachel Nicola, Christopher Symanowicz and Meghann Marcella as well as Dr. Soe and the BMC staff for the compassionate care given to Kathy in her final days.

Funeral notice: A Liturgy of Christian Burial for Kathy Horan will be held on Saturday February 24, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. at St Elizabeth of Hungary Church. Calling hours will be on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, MA 01247.

Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to BCARC Crossroads Center for Enrichment 979 Dalton Ave, Pittsfield, MA 01201.