Christian Alexander Hird

1998 - 2020

New London - Christian Alexander Hird, 22, of New London, passed away Dec. 25, 2020. He was born Dec. 24, 1998, in New London, the son of Tricia Sneider and Ian Hird and brother of Meredith and Brendan Hird.

Raised in both New London and Waterford, Christian was very active in youth sports. He played on several soccer and lacrosse teams. Golfing since the age of two, he played in leagues throughout southeastern Connecticut. As a runner, he participated in many children's road races including the Hershey Youth track meets. Another of Christian's passions was swimming on the Camel, CAC and CAT teams. One highlight of his swimming career was setting the Camel team record for the eight and under 200 freestyle. His love for water sports carried on in later years when he rowed for the Blood Street Sculls.

Christian appreciated the family community of the Catholic schools. He graduated from St. Joseph School in New London where he was involved in their activities. Always happy to help, Christian participated in their Santa's Workshop, Pancake Breakfast and Shamrock Tea events. One of his favorite memories was spending every first Friday with his classmates at Ocean Pizza. Once a week, he and his friends assisted at the senior community at Kindred Crossings, an experience he found rewarding. He matriculated at the Saint Bernard School in Uncasville. As a member of St. Bernard's Class of 2017, Christian's dedication to school continued. He was a member of the soccer, track and golf teams. As way to give back, he served as both a senior leader and student ambassador. Although he loved the camaraderie of sports, it was in the music department that he found his passion. As a member of the school choir, Christian performed at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, Disney and the Vatican in Rome. During the trip to Rome, Christian took a picture with the Pope in the background. While he hadn't noticed, the Italian police did; a story he enjoyed retelling.

Christian enjoyed working at his various summer jobs, including Camp Dash, Camp Harkness and the Mystic YMCA. He especially adored working with his sister at the Mystic Y. He loved spending time with his siblings and cousins, whether it was building Legos, skiing or hanging at Pequot Beach in New London. He treasured his dogs, Jaffa and Buddy, as well as his gecko Filipe. A kind and gentle soul, Christian was known for his humor and was a constant source of entertainment for his family and numerous friends.

Survivors include his parents Tricia Sneider and Ian Hird; older sister Meredith Hird; and younger brother Brendan Hird; as well as his paternal grandmother Marion Stubbs. He was blessed to spend the last year and half with the love of his life, Bree Bohle, by his side. He leaves behind several loving aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many caring friends. Christian's loving nature and sense of humor endeared him to the many wonderful people he met throughout his life.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday Dec. 31, at St. Joseph Church, corner of Squire Street and Montauk Avenue, New London. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Jefferson Avenue, New London. Due to COVID-19 regulations, we ask that those in attendance be mindful of social distancing and wear a mask at all times. Kindly omit flowers. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Bernard School. The Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London, is assisting the family with the arrangements.