Kaitlyn N. Deckard

Kaitlyn Deckard Obituary
Kaitlyn Nichole Deckard, 36, of Higganum, passed away on February 23rd, 2024, at Hartford Hospital.
Born on November 13th, 1987, Kaitlyn was the beloved daughter of her mother Katryn "Katie" (French) Hanks. Always active and smiling, Kaitlyn grew to become a vivacious and friendly young woman. She had an innate fondness for animals, her benevolence and patience with them culminating in her work in the veterinary field. Kaitlyn's bright spirit shined through her love of music-not only was she a dedicated country music fan, but she herself was an accomplished flutist who enjoyed playing for her family. Kaitlyn had an appreciation of nature that was cultivated early on when she often found herself helping her grandmother tend to the garden as a toddler; through her childhood Girl Scout retreats; and later, as a young adult, camping with friends.
Following her graduation from East Hampton High School in 2005, she met her fiancé, Robert Mesick Junior, in 2010. As their relationship blossomed, they shared their mutual passion for scenic hikes and motorcycle rides on his Harley over their countless trips to Vermont. She found her life's purpose in raising their two remarkable young sons, TJ (Thomas James) and Joe (Joseph Robert). Kaitlyn was unwavering in her commitment to her family and loved nothing more in life than being a mother. She took great joy in sharing all of the traditions from her childhood with her boys and creating beautiful new memories with them to cherish. Whether participating in their school functions or watching hours of cooking shows to then try and replicate those recipes together, spending time with TJ and Joe was the highlight of her days. Kaitlyn was also an avid reader, fostering this passion within her boys. Some of her favorite moments consisted of cuddling up together with them and a good book. Kaitlyn always looked forward to beach and lake trips with her boys over the summer, while they occupied snow days with sledding and snow fort-building. No matter what the activity, Kaitlyn's love for her sons radiated through her contagious laughter and smile; her sons were her greatest joy and she never let a day go by without reminding them of this simple fact.
Kaitlyn's heart was filled with unconditional love and immense pride for her family and friends. She was a natural caregiver, always quick to show encouragement and support, and never hesitant to provide a tender helping hand to those in need. Her kindhearted soul will always be remembered and cherished by those who had the privilege of being in her life. She will be greatly loved and missed forever. Kaitlyn is survived by her mother, Katie Hanks; her two sons, TJ and Joe; her brother, Kody Hanks; her sister, Hannah Trocchi; her grandparents, Robert and Cheryl Damon; her uncle, Matthew French; her fiancé, Rob Mesick and his mother, Deborah Mesick, as well as many other dear family members and friends. In addition to her father, Mark Alan Deckard, she was predeceased by her aunt, Marnie Merriam.
A memorial service celebrating Kaitlyn's life will be held at 2:00PM on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Congregational Church of Salem, 244 Hartford Road, Salem, CT 06420. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Kaitlyn's honor may be made in support of her children's future educational endeavors to the Kaitlyn Deckard Memorial Education Fund C/O Liberty Bank, located at 219 South Main Street, Colchester, CT 06415.
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